Bring your summons and a valid photo ID

The two things you absolutely must have are your jury summons (the notice the court sent you) and a valid photo ID. Without the summons, the court has no record that you were called. Without the ID, you cannot prove you are the person named on the summons. Bring the original summons, not a copy, and bring it even if you have already checked in online.

Valid photo IDs include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID does not have to be current — an expired license is usually accepted as long as the photo is recognisably you. If you do not have photo ID, call the court listed on your summons at least one week before your date and ask what alternatives they accept.

Key Takeaways

  • Your jury summons and a valid photo ID are required; without them you may be turned away or held in contempt.
  • Bring a notebook and pen, comfortable clothing, and any medications or medical devices you need during the day.
  • Leave your phone on silent or off during jury selection and trial; many courts prohibit phones in the courtroom entirely.
  • Do not bring weapons, recording devices, or anything that could be used as a weapon, even if it is legal to carry outside the courthouse.
  • Bring snacks and water if the court allows them; some courts have limited food options and long waits between breaks.

Documents that show your address and financial hardship

If you plan to ask to be excused from jury duty because of financial hardship, bring documents that prove your situation. This might include recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer stating you will not be paid during jury service, a lease or mortgage statement showing your address, or a utility bill. Courts vary in what they require, but having these items ready means you can make your case quickly if you are called into the judge's office.

If you have a medical condition or disability that affects your ability to serve, bring a letter from your doctor or a copy of your medical records summary. You do not need to share the details of your condition in open court — you can usually hand the letter to the judge or court clerk privately. If you take medications or need medical equipment (an inhaler, glucose monitor, hearing aid), bring enough for a full day plus extras.

Comfort items for a long day

Jury duty can mean sitting in a waiting room or courtroom for hours. Bring a notebook and pen so you can take notes during trial if the judge permits it. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes — you may be standing in line or sitting for extended periods. Layers are useful because courtroom temperatures vary widely.

Bring snacks and a water bottle if the court allows them. Many courthouses have vending machines but limited food options, and breaks may not happen when you expect them. Check your summons or the court's website to see if outside food is permitted. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring a backup pair or your prescription in case you lose or damage your primary pair during the day.

What not to bring to the courthouse

Do not bring weapons of any kind, including pocket knives, pepper spray, or firearms — even if they are legal to carry in your state. Courthouses have metal detectors and security staff, and bringing a weapon will result in confiscation, possible arrest, and disqualification from jury duty. The same applies to items that could be used as weapons, such as box cutters or tools.

Leave your phone at home or keep it completely off during jury selection and trial. Many courts prohibit phones in the courtroom, and even a phone on silent can get you removed from the jury pool. Do not bring recording devices, cameras, or laptops unless the court has specifically told you to. Do not bring alcohol, illegal drugs, or anything that smells strongly (perfume, cologne, smoke). If you are a nursing parent, ask the court in advance whether you can bring an infant or a nursing support person.

Proof of citizenship or residency if the court requests it

Some courts ask jurors to bring proof of U.S. citizenship or state residency. Check your summons to see if this is required. If it is, bring a passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers, or a state ID card. A driver's license serves as proof of both residency and identity. If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), bring your green card or a copy of it.

If your summons says to bring proof of residency but does not specify what counts, a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or recent tax return showing your address will work. Bring the original or a clear copy. If you have moved recently and your ID does not match your current address, bring both your ID and a document showing your new address.

Childcare or dependent care arrangements — not documents

You do not need to bring documents proving you have childcare, but you should have childcare arranged before you arrive at court. If you do not, tell the judge or court clerk when you check in. Some courts can excuse you or postpone your service if you have no one to care for a child or dependent adult. Having a plan in place before you arrive makes the conversation faster and more likely to result in a postponement rather than a fine.

If you are a caregiver for an elderly parent, disabled family member, or child with special needs, bring documentation of that responsibility (a custody order, power of attorney, or medical records) if you think you may need to ask for an excuse or postponement. Again, the court does not require this, but having it ready helps if the judge asks questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my original summons or is a photo copy okay?

Bring the original. The court uses the summons to check you off the list and confirm you received the notice. A copy may not scan or process correctly. If you have lost the original, call the court as soon as possible — they can print a new one or confirm your information over the phone.

What if I don't have a photo ID?

Call the court at least one week before your date. Some courts accept non-photo IDs (a Social Security card plus a utility bill, for example) or will let you bring a letter from your employer or a government agency confirming your identity. Do not wait until the morning of jury duty to figure this out.

Can I bring my phone if I promise to keep it off?

Many courts prohibit phones in the courtroom entirely, even if off. Check your summons or call the court to ask. If phones are allowed in the waiting area but not in the courtroom, you may be able to leave it in your bag during trial. When in doubt, leave it at home or in your car.

What should I do if I have a medical condition and need to bring medication or equipment?

Bring your medication or equipment and a letter from your doctor explaining why you need it. You can show the letter privately to the judge or court clerk. Insulin, inhalers, hearing aids, and similar items are always permitted. If you need to take medication at a specific time, let the judge know during jury selection.

Do I need to bring proof that I can't afford to miss work?

Bring it if you plan to ask for an excuse or postponement. Recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or proof that you are self-employed and will lose income helps the judge understand your situation. Without documentation, the judge may assume you can take the time off.