Yes, you can get a Real ID after May 7th — the important date does not stop you from obtaining one

May 7th, 2025 is when the federal government stops accepting a regular state ID or driver's license for domestic flights and entry to federal buildings. It is not when Real ID applications close. You can walk into your state's DMV the day after May 7th and start the process. What changes is that you will need a Real ID to board a plane or enter a federal courthouse, post office, or military base — you cannot use a standard ID anymore.

The important date affects what you can do with your current ID, not whether you can get a new one. Every state continues to issue Real IDs indefinitely. The process, the documents you need, and the cost remain the same whether you explore now or years from now.

Key Takeaways

  • Real ID applications do not close on May 7th — that date only marks when federal agencies stop accepting standard IDs for flights and federal building entry.
  • You will need a Real ID to fly domestically or enter federal buildings after May 7th, but you can obtain one at any time after that date.
  • Every state's DMV issues Real IDs using the same document requirements: proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and a completed process.
  • Processing times vary by state, typically ranging from same-day to several weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by mail.
  • If you travel or need federal building access after May 7th without a Real ID, you will need a passport or passport card instead.

What happens to your current ID after May 7th

A standard state ID or driver's license remains valid for driving and everyday identification. It straightforward will not work for federal purposes. If you try to board a domestic flight with a regular ID after May 7th, the airline will turn you away unless you have a passport, passport card, or military ID instead.

Your current ID does not expire or become invalid — it just loses its federal acceptance. You can keep using it to drive, prove your age, or show to a police officer. The restriction applies only to TSA checkpoints, federal courthouses, military bases, and other federally controlled facilities.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Every state requires the same four categories of documents. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies do not work. You will need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and a completed Real ID process form.

Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts in each category, because some states take additional forms. For example, some accept a bank statement for residency while others do not. Check your state's DMV site before you go — showing up without the right documents means a wasted trip.

How long the process takes

In-person applications at the DMV typically take 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the location is. You usually walk out with a temporary Real ID document the same day, though some states mail the physical card later. Mail-in applications take longer — usually two to four weeks for processing, plus mailing time both ways.

A few states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, usually $10 to $25, which can cut the timeline in half. Check whether your state offers this option and whether the cost is worth it for your situation. If you need a Real ID urgently after May 7th, explore in person at your DMV is the fastest route.

Cost of a Real ID

Real ID fees vary by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a Real ID driver's license or ID card, though some charge more. The fee is usually higher than a standard ID because of the additional security features and federal compliance requirements. A few states charge the same price for both, so check your state's DMV fee schedule before you go.

If you are renewing your license anyway, you can upgrade to a Real ID at the same time. Some states bundle the cost into a single renewal fee, while others charge an additional fee on top of the renewal cost. Ask the DMV clerk what the total will be before you pay.

What to do if you need to fly before you get your Real ID

If May 7th arrives and you do not yet have a Real ID, you have two backup options: a passport or a passport card. A passport takes four to six weeks to obtain through the State Department, though expedited processing can cut that to two to three weeks for an extra fee. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport but works for domestic flights and federal building entry.

A military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card also works at TSA checkpoints after May 7th. If you have any of these, you do not need a Real ID. For federal building access, the rules are slightly different — check the specific facility's website to see what it accepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a Real ID, or can I just use my passport?

You do not have to get a Real ID. A passport or passport card works for domestic flights and federal building entry. A Real ID is straightforward an alternative that uses your state ID instead of a separate federal document. Choose whichever is more convenient for your situation.

What if I lost my birth certificate or Social Security card?

You can order a replacement birth certificate from your state's vital records office (usually the county clerk or health department) and a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration. Both take one to two weeks. Some DMVs accept other documents in place of these — ask your state's DMV what alternatives it takes before ordering replacements.

Can I renew my license by mail and upgrade to Real ID at the same time?

Most states allow mail-in renewal, but Real ID applications usually require an in-person visit because the DMV needs to verify your identity and take a new photo. Check your state's DMV website to see whether it offers any mail-in Real ID options — a few states have started allowing this, but it is not standard.

What if my address changed since I got my current ID?

Bring a current proof of residency document (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement) dated within the last 60 days showing your new address. You do not need to update your old ID first — the DMV will issue your Real ID with the new address.

Do I need a Real ID if I only drive within my state?

No. A Real ID is required only for domestic flights and entry to federal buildings. If you drive only within your state and do not fly or visit federal facilities, a standard state ID works fine. You can keep renewing your regular license indefinitely.