The federal important date has already passed, but your state may still accept Real IDs

The original federal important date for Real ID was May 7, 2025. That date has come and gone. However, this does not mean you cannot get a Real ID now — it means that as of that date, a regular state ID or driver's license is no longer accepted for domestic flights, entry to federal buildings, or access to military bases. If you do not have a Real ID and need one for these purposes, you can still obtain one through your state's DMV, but the process takes time and you should not wait.

Each state runs its own Real ID program on its own timeline. Some states stopped issuing regular IDs years ago and now issue only Real IDs. Others continue to issue both. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether you can still get a Real ID and how long the process typically takes in your area. The key point is that there is no second federal important date coming — the requirement is already in effect.

Key Takeaways

  • The federal Real ID important date of May 7, 2025 has passed, and regular IDs are no longer accepted for domestic flights or federal building entry.
  • You can still obtain a Real ID from your state's DMV, but processing times vary by state and can take several weeks.
  • Your state's DMV website shows which documents you need to bring and whether appointments are required in your area.
  • If you travel by air or need to enter federal buildings before you receive your Real ID, you will need a passport or passport card instead.

What documents you need to bring to your state DMV

Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but the general categories are the same everywhere. You will need to bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of identity, most states accept a passport, passport card, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. For Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a tax return or W-2 that shows your number. For address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail. Your state's DMV website lists the specific documents it accepts, and you should check before you go — showing up without the right paperwork means another trip.

If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to bring proof of lawful status. This can be a passport, green card, employment authorization document, or visa. Again, your state's DMV website specifies what it accepts.

How long the process takes in your state

Processing time depends on whether you need an appointment, how busy your local DMV is, and whether your state processes Real IDs in-house or sends them to a contractor. Some states issue Real IDs on the spot during your visit. Others mail them to you, which can take two to four weeks after your appointment.

Check your state's DMV website for current wait times. Many states show average processing times by location, and some allow you to book an appointment online. If your state requires an appointment and the next available slot is weeks away, plan accordingly — do not wait until you have a flight booked.

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

If you have a domestic flight scheduled before your Real ID is ready, you have two options: bring a passport or passport card instead, or bring your regular state ID along with a secondary form of identification such as a military ID, employee badge, or student ID. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts these combinations at airport security.

A passport card is faster to obtain than a Real ID in some cases, because the State Department processes passport applications separately from your state's DMV. However, passport processing also takes time — standard service is currently four to six weeks. If you need to travel within the next few weeks, check whether you already have a passport or passport card at home.

Real ID requirements for federal buildings and military bases

Real ID is required to enter federal office buildings, federal courthouses, and military bases. A regular state ID is no longer accepted for these purposes. If you work in or frequently visit a federal building, you should obtain a Real ID as soon as your state's DMV can process one.

Some federal buildings and military bases may accept a passport or passport card as an alternative. Call ahead to confirm what your specific location accepts, because policies can vary by facility.

Renewing or replacing a Real ID

If your Real ID is expiring soon, you can renew it through your state's DMV. Some states allow online renewal if you meet certain conditions — usually that your ID is not expired, you have not changed your address, and you do not need a new photo. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you may have access to for online renewal or whether you must visit in person.

If your Real ID is lost or stolen, you will need to visit your state's DMV in person to request a replacement. Bring the same documents you brought for your original Real ID. Processing time for a replacement is usually faster than for a new ID, but it still varies by state.

What happens if you do not have a Real ID

If you attempt to board a domestic flight without a Real ID or acceptable alternative, TSA will not allow you through security. You will be turned away. If you try to enter a federal building without a Real ID, you will be denied entry. There is no grace period and no exception process — the requirement is in effect now.

The only way to avoid having a Real ID is to use an alternative form of identification that TSA or the federal facility accepts. For flights, that means a passport, passport card, military ID, or certain tribal IDs. For federal buildings, policies vary by location, so contact the specific building in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still get a Real ID, or is it too late?

You can still get a Real ID from your state's DMV. The May 2025 important date means the requirement is now in effect, not that you can no longer obtain one. Contact your state's DMV to find out how long processing takes in your area and whether you need an appointment.

What if my state stopped issuing regular IDs?

If your state issues only Real IDs now, your current ID is already a Real ID. Check your ID card — it will have a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner if it is a Real ID. If you are unsure, contact your state's DMV.

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

You do not need a Real ID for driving or for most everyday activities. You only need one if you plan to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or access a military base. If you do none of these things, a regular state ID is still valid for identification purposes.

How much does a Real ID cost?

Cost varies by state. Some states charge the same fee for a Real ID as for a regular ID. Others charge a small additional fee, usually between five and twenty dollars. Check your state's DMV website for the exact cost.

Can I get a Real ID by mail?

No. You must visit your state's DMV in person to obtain a Real ID for the first time. Some states allow online renewal of an existing Real ID, but new applications require an in-person visit so the DMV can verify your documents and take your photo.