The documents banks actually ask for

Banks need to verify who you are before they open an account. The core requirement is a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Most banks will also ask for a second form of identification that proves your address, usually a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. Some banks accept a Social Security number as proof of identity instead of a second document, depending on their internal rules.

The exact list varies by bank and by the type of account you are opening. A checking account typically needs less documentation than a savings account linked to investment services. Online banks often have different requirements than branches you can walk into. The best approach is to call the bank or check their website before you go in, so you bring the right papers the first time.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID with your current address is the minimum requirement at nearly every bank.
  • A second form of ID proving your address — such as a utility bill or lease — is standard, though some banks accept a Social Security number instead.
  • Online banks often have looser document requirements than brick-and-mortar branches, sometimes accepting only an ID number and a phone number.
  • If your ID is expired or your address has changed, bring a second document that shows your current address to avoid delays.
  • Bring originals, not copies — banks will not accept photocopies of your ID.

Government-issued photo ID: what counts

A driver's license is the most common form of ID banks accept. If you do not have a driver's license, a state ID card (sometimes called a non-driver ID) works just as well. A U.S. passport or passport card also satisfies this requirement. Some banks accept a military ID or tribal ID, though this varies by institution.

The ID must be current — expired IDs are usually rejected. If your ID is expired but your address on it is still correct, bring a second document showing your current address anyway. Banks are checking two things: that you are who you say you are, and that you live where you say you live. An expired ID handles the first part but not the second.

Proof of address: the second document

Banks need to confirm where you live. A recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most straightforward proof. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill also works. Some banks accept a recent bank statement from another institution, a credit card statement, or a government letter addressed to you at your current address.

The document usually needs to be dated within the last 60 to 90 days, though this varies by bank. If you have just moved and your utility bill has not caught up to your new address, bring your lease or a signed letter from your landlord. If you are homeless or living with someone else, ask the bank what they accept — some have workarounds, such as accepting mail from a government agency or a shelter.

When your ID does not match your current address

If you moved and have not renewed your ID yet, bring both your old ID and a proof-of-address document. The bank will use the ID to verify your identity and the second document to confirm where you live now. This is routine and does not slow down the process.

If your name has changed — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring your ID in your old name plus a document showing the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Some banks ask you to bring the original document; others accept a certified copy. Call ahead to confirm what the bank needs.

What happens if you do not have standard ID

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, a passport works. If you do not have a passport either, some banks will accept a combination of documents: a Social Security card plus a birth certificate, or a work ID plus a utility bill. The rules are looser than they used to be, partly because many people do not drive and do not have passports.

If you have no government-issued photo ID at all, call the bank directly before visiting. Some branches have workarounds — they may accept a combination of documents like a Social Security card, birth certificate, and utility bill. Others may ask you to get a state ID first. Online banks sometimes have more flexibility than branches, so that may be worth exploring if your local bank turns you away.

Online banks and remote account opening

Online banks often have different requirements because they cannot see you in person. Many will accept a photo of your ID taken on your phone, plus a video call where you show your face and your ID. Some use third-party verification services that check your identity against public records — in those cases, you may only need to provide your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number.

The trade-off is that online banks move faster but may ask more intrusive questions about where your money comes from. If you are opening an account remotely, expect to answer questions about your employment or the source of deposits. This is standard anti-money-laundering procedure, not a sign that something is wrong.

Bringing originals, not copies

Banks will not accept photocopies of your ID. They need to see the original document. This is a legal requirement under anti-money-laundering rules — the bank has to verify that the ID is real and that it matches your face. A photocopy does not prove either of those things.

Bring the original ID and the original proof-of-address document. The bank will look at them, record the information, and hand them back. You keep your documents. If the bank asks to keep a copy, that is fine — many do — but they will ask your permission first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an account with an expired ID?

An expired ID can work if your address on it is still correct and you bring a second document showing your current address. However, some banks prefer current IDs. Call ahead to ask whether your expired ID will be accepted, or bring a second form of ID to be safe.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still open a bank account. You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, which you can obtain from the IRS. Bring your ITIN documentation along with your ID and proof of address. Some banks ask for a Social Security number on the form but will accept an ITIN in its place.

Do I need to bring my original documents or can I send photos?

In-person branches require originals. Online banks often accept photos of your ID taken on your phone, sometimes combined with a video call. Check with your specific bank — their website or customer service line will tell you what they accept for remote account opening.

What if my address on my ID is different from where I live now?

Bring both your ID and a recent document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. The bank will use the ID to verify your identity and the second document to confirm your current address. You do not need to renew your ID first.

Can someone else open an account on my behalf?

No. You must be present in person or complete the process yourself online. The bank needs to verify your identity directly. If you are unable to visit a branch, use an online bank that offers remote account opening instead.