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. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need one to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. Immigrants with lawful status can get a Real ID in most states, but undocumented immigrants cannot. The documents required vary by state and by your immigration category — a green card holder needs different paperwork than someone on a visa.

The key difference is that Real ID requires proof of lawful presence in the United States. This means you must show a document that proves you have permission to be here. A green card, visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or asylum approval letter all count. A state ID without Real ID status does not meet federal requirements for flights or federal buildings, so if you have one now, you may need to upgrade it.

Key Takeaways

  • Immigrants with a green card, valid visa, EAD, or asylum approval can get a Real ID in most states.
  • You will need to bring your immigration document plus proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of your current address to your state's DMV.
  • Undocumented immigrants cannot get a Real ID, though some states offer a state ID without Real ID status for driving only.
  • Real ID is required for domestic flights and federal building entry starting May 7, 2025, but not for driving within your state.
  • Processing times and exact document requirements vary by state, so contact your DMV before you go.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Every state requires the same core set of documents for a Real ID. You must bring proof of lawful presence — this is your immigration document. A green card, valid passport with visa, EAD, I-94 arrival/departure record, or asylum approval letter all work. Some states also accept an I-797 Notice of Action if it shows you have been granted status.

You also need a document that proves your identity. A valid passport from any country works. If you do not have a passport, a state ID, driver's license, or national ID from your home country may work depending on your state. You will need to bring your Social Security number or a letter from the Social Security Administration if you do not have one yet. Finally, bring two documents that prove your current address — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days usually works.

Some states ask for additional documents. A few require a birth certificate or certified copy of your birth record. Others ask for a completed process form, which you can usually read from your state DMV website before you go. Call your state DMV ahead of time to confirm the exact list, because requirements differ and missing one document means a wasted trip.

Real ID requirements by immigration status

If you hold a green card, you can get a Real ID in all 50 states. Bring your green card, a valid form of identity, and proof of your address. Processing usually takes two to four weeks.

If you are on an H-1B, L-1, or other work visa, you can get a Real ID as long as your visa is valid and not expired. You will need your passport with the visa stamp, your I-94 record, and your employment authorization letter. Some states require a letter from your employer confirming your status.

If you have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you can get a Real ID. Bring the EAD itself, your passport, and proof of address. Make sure your EAD has not expired.

If you have been granted asylum, bring your asylum approval letter (I-797) or your green card if you have already received one. Asylum approval is enough to get a Real ID even before your green card arrives.

If you are undocumented, you cannot get a Real ID. However, some states offer a state ID or driver's license without Real ID status that you can use for driving within that state only. This does not meet federal requirements for flights or federal buildings, but it is legal for state purposes. Check your state DMV website to see if this option is available where you live.

How the Real ID process works at your state DMV

Visit your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID section. Most states let you schedule an appointment online, which saves time. Bring all your documents in the order the DMV lists them — staff will check them off as you go through.

At the DMV, a staff member will verify your documents and take your photograph and fingerprints. They will ask you to sign the process. The whole visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes if you have an appointment and all your documents. If anything is missing or unclear, they will tell you what to bring back.

Your Real ID will arrive by mail in two to four weeks in most states. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. Until it arrives, your old ID remains valid for driving. Once your Real ID arrives, use it for flights and federal buildings. Your old ID is no longer needed.

What happens if your immigration status changes

If your visa expires or your work authorization ends, your Real ID remains valid for driving within your state. However, you cannot use it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building once your lawful status ends. If you get a green card or change visa categories, you can renew your Real ID with your new document.

If you are in removal proceedings or your status is being reviewed, contact your DMV to ask whether your current document is still acceptable. Some states will not issue or renew a Real ID if your status is in question, so it is better to know before you explore.

Real ID vs. a regular state ID or driver's license

A regular state ID or driver's license does not meet federal Real ID standards. You can still use it to drive within your state and for most everyday purposes. However, starting May 7, 2025, you cannot use it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal courthouse, passport office, or military base.

A Real ID meets federal security standards and works for all of those purposes. It looks similar to a regular ID but usually has a gold or star symbol in the upper right corner. The process to get one is the same as renewing a regular ID, except you must bring proof of lawful presence.

If you already have a regular state ID and want to upgrade to Real ID, you do not have to wait for it to expire. You can go to your DMV and explore for a Real ID renewal at any time. Some states charge a small fee for the upgrade; others do not.

State-by-state differences you should know

Every state runs its own DMV and sets some of its own rules within federal Real ID guidelines. A few states have different document requirements or fees. For example, some states require a certified birth certificate even for immigrants with valid visas, while others do not. A few states offer mobile DMV services or extended hours for Real ID appointments.

The safest approach is to visit your state DMV's official website and look for the Real ID section. It will list exactly what documents your state needs, what the fee is, and how long processing takes. You can also call your local DMV office and ask to speak with someone who handles Real ID for immigrants. They can tell you whether your specific immigration document will work and what else you need to bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID if my visa is about to expire?

Most states will issue a Real ID as long as your visa is currently valid, even if it expires soon. However, your Real ID will remain valid for driving even after your visa expires — you just cannot use it for flights or federal buildings once your status ends. Check with your state DMV about their specific policy on expiring visas.

What if my country does not issue passports or I cannot get one?

You can use other forms of identity instead of a passport, such as a national ID card, consular ID, or state ID from your home country. Some states also accept a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a visa stamp. Contact your DMV to ask what alternatives they accept.

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 one, you can explore through the Social Security Administration or the IRS. Some states will accept a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number, which allows you to proceed without one.

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

No. A Real ID is a state ID or driver's license and is not valid for international travel. You need a valid passport to leave and re-enter the United States. A Real ID only works for domestic flights and federal buildings within the U.S.

What if I lost my immigration document?

Contact the agency that issued it — USCIS for green cards and work visas, your embassy or consulate for passport visas, or the asylum office for asylum approval letters. You will need a replacement before you can get a Real ID. Processing times for replacement documents vary, so start this process as soon as possible.