Check your license for the Real ID star

A Real ID is a driver license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. The easiest way to know if yours is a Real ID is to look for a small gold or metallic star in the upper right corner of your card. If that star is there, your license is a Real ID. If there is no star, it is not.

The star is the visual marker every state uses. It is not optional — every Real ID has it, and no non-Real ID has it. You do not need to read the fine print or call anyone. The star tells you everything you need to know.

Real ID licenses became standard because the federal government requires them for certain activities. Starting in May 2025, you will need a Real ID or another accepted form of identification to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If your license does not have the star, you can still travel — you will just need to bring a passport, military ID, or other federal document instead.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID has a small gold or metallic star in the upper right corner of the card; no star means it is not a Real ID.
  • Starting in May 2025, you will need a Real ID or a passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.
  • You can still use a non-Real ID license for driving and most other daily activities.
  • Getting a Real ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV with documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and current address.
  • Processing times vary by state, so check your state DMV website for current wait times before you go.

What documents you need to get a Real ID

Your state DMV will ask for three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

For identity, bring a passport, passport card, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return. For address, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring the originals — photocopies are not accepted.

You must explore in person at your DMV office. You cannot get a Real ID by mail or online. Bring your current driver license or state ID, your documents, and be ready to pay a fee. The fee varies by state — some charge $10 to $20 extra for a Real ID, while others charge the same price as a regular renewal.

How long it takes and when to explore

Processing time depends on your state and how busy the DMV is. Some states issue Real IDs in two to three weeks; others take six to eight weeks or longer. Check your state DMV website for current processing times before you go, because the wait can change month to month.

If you need a Real ID before May 2025 and your state is backed up, explore as soon as you can. If your current license does not expire until after May 2025, you do not have to renew it yet — you can wait until your normal renewal date and request a Real ID then. But if you travel by air or visit federal buildings before your license expires, you will need to bring a passport or other federal ID instead.

States that have not issued Real IDs yet

Most states have been issuing Real IDs since 2018 or earlier. A few states started later or had delays. Check your state DMV website to confirm that your state is currently issuing Real IDs — the website will tell you whether you can get one and what the current wait time is.

If your state has not started issuing Real IDs yet, you will need to use a passport or military ID for federal purposes until your state begins. This is rare, but it happens. Your state DMV website will have the most current information.

What to do if you cannot get a Real ID

If you do not have a Real ID by May 2025, you can still travel and enter federal buildings — you just need to bring an accepted form of ID instead. A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or trusted traveler card (like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck) all work. You can also bring a combination of documents, such as a birth certificate plus a state ID, depending on the situation.

For domestic flights, the TSA accepts any of these documents. For federal buildings, the rules vary by building, but a passport or military ID will work at any federal facility. Check the specific building's website if you are unsure.

Real ID and immigration status

You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to get a Real ID. You can get one if you are a lawful permanent resident, have a visa, or have another immigration status that allows you to be in the country. The requirements are the same — you need proof of identity, Social Security number, and address. Your state DMV will tell you which documents count as proof of identity for your immigration status.

If you are not sure whether your immigration status allows you to get a Real ID, call your state DMV and ask. They can tell you what documents you need and whether you are able to get one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID if I only drive locally?

No. A Real ID is only required for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. You can drive anywhere with a regular driver license. If you do not fly or visit federal facilities, you do not need a Real ID.

Can I renew my license online and request a Real ID?

No. Real ID requires an in-person visit to your DMV office. Online renewal is only for regular driver licenses. You must go to the DMV in person and bring your documents.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You do not need the card itself. You can bring a W-2 form, tax return, or other document that shows your Social Security number. Call your state DMV to ask which documents they accept.

Can I get a Real ID if I do not have a current address?

Most states require proof of a current address dated within the last 60 days. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, call your state DMV to ask what documents they will accept instead. Some states have alternatives for people without a fixed address.

Is a Real ID the same as a passport?

No. A Real ID is a state driver license or ID card that meets federal security standards. A passport is a federal document issued by the State Department. Both work for federal purposes, but they are different documents issued by different agencies.