Yes, you can still get a Real ID after May 7

May 7, 2025 is not a important date to stop issuing Real IDs — it is the date when the federal government begins enforcing the requirement. After that date, you will need a Real ID (or an alternative like a passport) to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. You can obtain a Real ID any time after May 7, just as you can before it. The difference is that without one, you will be turned away at airport security.

The enforcement date does not close the process window. Every state continues to issue Real IDs indefinitely. What changes on May 7 is that TSA and federal agencies will start checking for them. If you do not have one by then and you fly domestically or need to enter a federal courthouse or military base, you will need to bring a passport, passport card, or other federally approved document instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Real IDs remain available after May 7 — the date marks enforcement, not the end of issuance.
  • You will need a Real ID, passport, or other federal ID to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings after May 7.
  • Getting a Real ID after May 7 takes the same documents and steps as before, but you may face longer wait times at your DMV.
  • If you cannot get a Real ID before May 7, a passport or passport card works as an alternative for domestic travel.
  • Your state's DMV website shows current processing times and whether you can book an appointment online.

What happens if you do not have a Real ID on May 7

If you fly domestically or need to enter a federal building after May 7 without a Real ID, you will need to bring an alternative document. TSA accepts a valid passport, passport card, military ID, or a handful of other federal documents. You will not be denied travel — you will straightforward be required to show one of these instead.

The enforcement applies to domestic flights only. International flights already require a passport. Federal buildings include courthouses, Social Security offices, and military installations. If your job or routine does not involve either, a Real ID is not legally necessary, though many people get one for convenience.

Documents you need to get a Real ID after May 7

The documents required do not change after May 7. You will need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). You will also need to provide your state-issued driver's license or ID card if you already have one.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change. Your DMV website lists the exact documents your state accepts, because some states have slightly different requirements.

How long it takes to get a Real ID after May 7

Processing time depends on your state and how busy your local DMV is. Before May 7, most states process Real IDs in two to four weeks. After May 7, when more people rush to get one, wait times often stretch to six to eight weeks or longer. Some states have reported backlogs lasting several months during peak periods.

The fastest way to avoid a long wait is to book an appointment online through your state's DMV website rather than walking in. Many states allow you to schedule weeks in advance. If your state does not offer online appointments, call ahead to ask about current wait times and whether you can reserve a time slot by phone.

The cost of getting a Real ID after May 7

Real ID fees vary by state. Most states charge between $15 and $50 for a Real ID driver's license or ID card, though some charge more. The fee is usually the same whether you get it before or after May 7 — the enforcement date does not change the price. A few states offer Real IDs at no extra cost beyond the standard driver's license fee.

Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and what payment methods they accept. Some DMVs accept cash, card, or check; others are card-only. If you are renewing your license anyway, the Real ID upgrade often costs less than a full renewal.

Alternatives to a Real ID for domestic travel

If you cannot get a Real ID before May 7 or do not want one, a passport or passport card works for domestic flights. A passport takes four to six weeks to arrive through the standard process, or one to two weeks if you pay for expedited service. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport but works the same way for domestic flights.

Military ID, a tribal ID, or a permanent resident card (green card) also work for domestic flights. If you have any of these, you do not need a Real ID. The trade-off is that a passport takes longer to obtain than a Real ID at your DMV, and passport fees are higher — typically $130 to $165 for an adult passport book.

What to expect at the DMV after May 7

The process itself does not change after May 7. You will fill out the same form (usually the state's driver's license process), provide the same documents, have your photo taken, and pay the same fee. The difference is that the DMV will be busier, so wait times will be longer and appointment slots will fill up faster.

Bring all your documents in one visit — going back a second time because you forgot something adds weeks to your timeline. Bring the originals, not copies, and bring more documents than you think you need. If your DMV rejects a document, having a backup saves you a return trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID if I only drive and never fly?

No. A Real ID is only required for domestic flights, federal buildings, and military bases. If you drive locally and do not enter federal buildings, your regular driver's license is sufficient. You can keep renewing your standard license indefinitely.

Can I use my passport instead of getting a Real ID?

Yes. A passport or passport card works for domestic flights and federal buildings. The downside is that a passport takes longer to obtain and costs more than a Real ID. If you already have a passport, you do not need a Real ID.

What if my state is backed up and I cannot get an appointment before May 7?

You can still fly after May 7 — just bring a passport, passport card, or other federally approved ID instead. Many people book appointments for after May 7 and travel with their passport in the meantime. The enforcement date does not prevent you from flying; it just changes what ID you need.

Will my old driver's license stop working after May 7?

Your old driver's license will still work for driving and most everyday purposes. It will not work for domestic flights or federal buildings after May 7, but you can use a passport or other federal ID for those instead. You do not have to replace your license when ready.

Can I renew my license online and add Real ID at the same time?

Some states allow online renewal, but most require you to visit the DMV in person for a Real ID because they need to verify your documents and take a new photo. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your state offers online renewal with Real ID, or whether you must go in person.