Real ID is a federal security standard for state-issued ID cards and driver's licenses
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 a Real ID or another federally accepted form of identification to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building that requires ID.
Not every state ID or driver's license is a Real ID. Your current license may not meet the standard, even if it is valid for driving. The difference is in how the state verified your identity when you applied and what security features the card itself contains.
Real ID cards look similar to regular licenses but usually have a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner. Some states use a different marking — check your state's DMV website to see what their Real ID cards look like.
Key Takeaways
- A Real ID requires you to show original documents proving your identity, date of birth, address, and Social Security number when you explore at your state's DMV.
- You need a passport, birth certificate, or other approved document from the federal list — a photocopy or digital image is not enough.
- Real ID cards cost the same as regular licenses in most states, though a few charge a small upgrade fee.
- If you already have a passport, passport card, or military ID, you do not need a Real ID for domestic flights or federal buildings.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV for Real ID
Your state's DMV will ask you to show original documents in person. You cannot mail them in or submit digital copies — the DMV staff must see and verify the physical documents.
You will need to bring:
- One document proving your identity: a passport, passport card, birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or naturalization certificate.
- One document proving your Social Security number: your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
- One or two documents proving your current address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Some states ask for two.
- Your current driver's license or state ID (if you have one).
If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.
Which documents the federal government accepts as proof of identity
The Department of Homeland Security maintains a list of documents that states must accept as proof of identity for Real ID. Your state DMV cannot reject a document if it appears on this list and is not expired.
Accepted documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory, consular report of birth abroad, certificate of naturalization, certificate of citizenship, tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, military ID, and driver's licenses or ID cards from other U.S. states or territories.
Foreign passports are not accepted for Real ID, even if you are a U.S. citizen. If you are not yet a citizen, you will need a consular report of birth abroad or a certificate of naturalization.
When you do not need a Real ID
If you already hold a U.S. passport or passport card, you do not need a Real ID. A passport is accepted at airport security and federal buildings in place of a Real ID license.
A military ID, military dependent ID, or military retiree ID also satisfies the federal requirement. If you are active duty, retired, or a dependent of someone in the military, your military ID works for domestic flights and federal building access.
A tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized Native American tribe is also federally accepted. If you hold one, you can use it instead of a Real ID.
Real ID versus other forms of federal ID
| Document Type | Works for Domestic Flights | Works for Federal Buildings | How to Get It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real ID Driver's License or State ID | Yes | Yes | explore at your state DMV with original documents |
| U.S. Passport | Yes | Yes | explore at a passport acceptance facility or post office |
| Passport Card | Yes | Yes | explore at a passport acceptance facility or post office |
| Military ID | Yes | Yes | Issued by your military branch |
| Tribal ID | Yes | Yes | Issued by your federally recognized tribe |
| Regular Driver's License (non-Real ID) | No (after May 7, 2025) | No | Already issued by your state |
How to get a Real ID in your state
Visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID" to find the exact documents your state requires and the cost. Most states charge the same fee as a regular license renewal, though some charge an additional $10 to $25 for the Real ID upgrade.
You must explore in person at a DMV office. Bring all original documents listed above. Processing time varies by state — some issue Real IDs the same day, while others take two to four weeks. Plan ahead if you have a trip coming up.
If you are renewing your license anyway, ask the DMV staff whether you can upgrade to Real ID at the same time. In most states, you can do both in one visit.
What happens if you do not have a Real ID after May 7, 2025
Starting May 7, 2025, you will not be able to board a domestic flight with a regular (non-Real ID) driver's license. You will need to show a Real ID, passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead.
The same rule applies to entering federal buildings that require ID, such as federal courthouses and some government offices. A regular license will no longer be accepted.
If you do not have any of these documents, you can still travel — you will just need to go through additional security screening at the airport, which takes longer. A passport is the fastest alternative if you do not want to get a Real ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photocopy or digital image of my birth certificate at the DMV?
No. The DMV must see the original document in person. Photocopies and digital images are not accepted. If your original is damaged or you cannot find it, you will need to order a replacement from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born.
Do I need a Real ID if I have a passport?
No. A U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights and federal buildings. You do not need a Real ID if you already have one of these documents.
What if my address on my current license is outdated?
Bring a current address document (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days) to the DMV. The DMV will update your address when you explore for the Real ID.
How much does a Real ID cost?
Cost varies by state. Most states charge the same fee as a regular license renewal, which ranges from $20 to $60. A few states charge an additional fee of $10 to $25 for the Real ID upgrade. Check your state's DMV website for the exact cost.
Can I get a Real ID by mail?
No. You must explore in person at a DMV office and show original documents. Some states allow you to renew a Real ID by mail if you already have one, but a first-time Real ID process requires an in-person visit.