Yes, immigrants can get a Real ID, but the documents you need depend on your immigration status

A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. You can obtain one as an immigrant, but the process differs based on whether you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or have another immigration status. The state you live in handles the actual issuance, and each state has its own rules about which documents prove your identity and immigration status.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you can get a Real ID in every state. If you have a work visa, temporary protected status, or another temporary immigration status, some states will issue you a Real ID, while others will not. The key is bringing the right documents to your state's DMV or equivalent agency.

Key Takeaways

  • Lawful permanent residents can obtain a Real ID in all 50 states by presenting a green card and other required documents.
  • People with temporary visas or work permits may be able to get a Real ID in some states but not others, depending on state law.
  • You will need to prove your identity, immigration status, and current address at your state's DMV, along with a completed process form.
  • Real ID became required for domestic air travel and federal building access on May 7, 2025, so check your state's processing times before you visit.

What documents you need as a lawful permanent resident

If you hold a green card, bring your Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) to your state's DMV. This is your primary proof of immigration status. You will also need to show proof of identity—a passport, national ID from your home country, or another document your state accepts—and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

Most states also require your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you do not have a Social Security number. Bring your completed Real ID process form, which you can read from your state's DMV website. Some states let you fill it out online before you arrive; others require you to complete it in person. Bring your original documents—photocopies alone are not enough.

What documents you need with a temporary visa or work permit

If you are in the United States on a temporary visa—such as an H-1B work visa, L-1 visa, or F-1 student visa—or if you have a work permit (Employment Authorization Document, or EAD), your options depend on your state. Some states, including California, New York, and Illinois, will issue a Real ID to people with temporary status. Others will not.

To find out whether your state accepts your visa or work permit, call your state's DMV directly or check their website. If your state does issue Real IDs to people with your status, bring your visa or EAD, a passport or national ID, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN. Processing times vary, but most states take two to four weeks.

States that issue Real ID to temporary visa holders

California, New York, Illinois, Washington, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virginia have all stated they will issue Real IDs to people with temporary immigration status, including work visas and permits. However, state policies change, and some states may have specific restrictions—for example, requiring that your visa or permit be valid for a certain length of time.

Before you make a trip to the DMV, contact your state's office directly to confirm the current policy and the exact documents they need. You can find your state DMV's phone number and website through a search for "[your state] DMV Real ID" or by visiting the federal Real ID website at dhs.gov/real-id.

What happens if your state does not issue Real ID to your immigration status

If your state does not issue Real IDs to people with your immigration status, you can still get a standard driver's license or state ID card that does not meet Real ID standards. This card will work for driving and everyday identification, but you cannot use it for domestic air travel or to enter federal buildings after May 7, 2025.

For air travel, you will need to bring a passport, a visa, or another federal document that proves your identity and immigration status. If you travel frequently or need federal building access, contact your state's DMV to ask whether they plan to change their Real ID policy, or consider whether moving to a state with a more permissive policy makes sense for your situation.

how the process works for Real ID as an immigrant

Visit your state's DMV website and read the Real ID process form. Fill it out completely and bring it along with your original documents—green card, visa, work permit, passport, proof of address, and Social Security number or ITIN. Make an appointment if your state requires one; many do, and walk-ins may face long waits.

Bring all documents in their original form. Photocopies, faxes, and digital images are not accepted. If any document is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation along with the original. The DMV will take your photograph and fingerprints, verify your information, and issue your Real ID card. Most states mail the card to your address within two to four weeks.

Processing times and what to expect

Real ID processing times vary by state and by how busy your local DMV is. Most states take two to four weeks from the time you explore to the time your card arrives in the mail. Some states are faster; a few take longer. If you need your Real ID by a specific date—for example, for a flight—call your DMV ahead of time to ask about current wait times and whether expedited processing is available.

Keep in mind that Real ID became required for domestic air travel and federal building access on May 7, 2025. If you do not yet have a Real ID and you travel by air, bring your passport or visa instead. If you are planning to travel soon, explore now rather than waiting, because processing can take several weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID if I am undocumented?

No. Real ID requires proof of legal immigration status. Undocumented immigrants cannot obtain a Real ID. Some states issue standard driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, which work for driving but not for federal air travel or building access. Check your state's policy.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a Real ID?

Most states require a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, contact your state's DMV to ask whether they accept an alternative form of tax identification or whether you can explore without one.

What if my visa or work permit expires soon?

Some states require that your visa or work permit be valid for a certain period—often at least six months—at the time you explore. Check your state's specific rules before you visit the DMV. If your status is about to expire, you may need to renew it first or wait until you have renewed it.

Can I use my Real ID to travel outside the United States?

No. A Real ID is a domestic travel document. For international travel, you need a passport. A Real ID works only for domestic flights and federal building access within the United States.

What if I move to a different state?

You will need to get a new Real ID from your new state's DMV. Each state issues its own cards and has its own requirements. Contact your new state's DMV to find out what documents you need and how long processing takes.