What is REAL ID and who needs it
The REAL ID Act of 2005 established federal standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Starting May 7, 2025 (extended from May 2023), every U.S. domestic traveler age 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant card to board a commercial flight or enter certain federal facilities. If your license was issued before the most recent extension, it may no longer be sufficient for these purposes. This guide outlines the requirements, deadlines, and steps to ensure your ID is compliant.
When REAL ID becomes mandatory
Key deadlines and extensions
The nationwide enforcement deadline for REAL ID compliance moved from May 3, 2023, to May 7, 2025. After this date, you must have a REAL ID-compliant card for the following:
- Boarding domestic flights operated by airlines in the United States
- Entering federal facilities such as military bases and nuclear power plants
Acceptable alternatives for boarding aircraft include passports, passport cards, and other federally recognized travel documents even if your license is not REAL ID-compliant. Note that state-specific rules can vary for things like voting or state benefits, and you should check with your state’s motor vehicle agency.
How to know if your license is REAL ID compliant
You can determine whether your current driver’s license or identification card meets REAL ID requirements by checking for a star or other compliant marker on the card. Many states now issue compliant cards by default, but if you received your license before the updated standards took effect, it may not include the marking. You can verify status through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or by contacting them directly for the most accurate information about your specific card.
Documents required to get a REAL ID
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant card, you generally must provide original or certified copies of documents that prove identity, residency, and social security eligibility. Acceptable documents typically include:
| Category | Accepted Document Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Identity & Citizenship | U.S. birth certificate; valid U.S. passport; Certificate of U.S. Citizenship | One original or certified copy |
| Social Security Number | Social Security card; W-2 showing full SSN; paystub with full SSN | One document showing full number |
| Residency | Utility bill; lease agreement; bank statement with current address | One document dated within the last 60 days |
Additional requirements may include a name change document if applicable (such as a marriage certificate or court order). Some states may also require in-person visits or appointments for first-time REAL ID applicants, and rules can differ by state, so it’s best to check your local DMV website.
How to apply for a REAL ID-compliant card
You can typically apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card by visiting your state’s DMV office in person or, where available, through an online or renewal portal. Many states encourage appointments to reduce wait times. Bring original or certified copies of the documents listed above, your current driver’s license, and any applicable fees. If you are renewing by mail or online where permitted, confirm that your current card qualifies for renewal under REAL ID rules; some states require an in-person visit for first-time REAL ID issuance.
Cost and renewal information
Fees for obtaining or renewing a REAL ID-compliant card vary by state and can depend on whether you are applying for the first time or renewing an existing license. Some states may charge an additional fee for REAL ID processing beyond the standard renewal price. In most cases, a REAL ID card must be renewed in person before expiration if you want to maintain REAL ID status, though policies on renewal windows and required documentation differ by jurisdiction. Check your state’s motor vehicle agency website for specific costs and renewal procedures.
Alternatives to REAL ID for travel
If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant card by the May 7, 2025 deadline, you can still board a domestic flight using an alternative document. Acceptable options include:
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card
- Trusted Traveler cards (such as NEXUS, SENTRI, or Global Entry)
- U.S. military travel orders or common access card
- Other federally recognized travel documentation
These alternatives remain valid for air travel regardless of your REAL ID status. You should verify requirements for entry to specific federal facilities separately, as acceptable documents may differ.