You get a Real ID from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or driver's license office

A Real ID is a federal standard for identification documents. Your state DMV or driver's license office issues them — the same place you renew your regular driver's license or get an ID card. You cannot order one online or by mail from a private vendor. You must go in person to a DMV office in your state.

Real IDs look like regular driver's licenses or ID cards, but they have a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need one to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you already have a Real ID, you do not need to do anything. If your current license does not have the star, you will need to visit your DMV to get one.

The process is straightforward: bring the required documents, pay a fee (which varies by state), and your new Real ID arrives by mail in one to three weeks. Some states let you renew online or by mail if you already have a Real ID, but you cannot get your first one that way.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state DMV or driver's license office is the only place to get a Real ID — no private companies or online services issue them.
  • You must visit in person with proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
  • The fee ranges from about $20 to $100 depending on your state and whether you are renewing or getting a new ID.
  • Your Real ID arrives by mail within one to three weeks; you cannot get it the same day.
  • Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings.

Finding your state's DMV office and hours

Search online for "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] driver's license office" to find the official website. Each state runs its own system, so the website name varies — some are called the Department of Motor Vehicles, others the Division of Motor Vehicles, and some use different names entirely. Your state's website will list all local offices, their hours, and whether you need an appointment.

Many states now require you to book an appointment before visiting. Check your state's website to see if walk-ins are accepted or if you must reserve a time slot. Some offices fill up weeks in advance, especially in urban areas. If appointments are full, check back daily or look for offices in nearby counties — you can usually visit any DMV office in your state, not just the one closest to you.

If you cannot find your state's DMV website, call your state's main information line or search for "DMV near me" with your zip code. Google Maps and Apple Maps both show DMV locations and hours.

Documents you need to bring

You will need three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state, but here is what most states require.

Proof of identity: A current or expired passport, birth certificate, or passport card. Some states also accept a military ID or a certificate of naturalization if you were not born in the United States.

Proof of Social Security number: Your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. A birth certificate does not count as proof of your Social Security number.

Proof of current address: A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. Your name must match the name on your identity document.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not count. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states have additional or different requirements.

What the Real ID process costs and how long it takes

The fee for a Real ID varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $100 for a new Real ID or to upgrade an existing license to Real ID status. Some states charge the same price whether you are renewing or upgrading; others charge extra for the Real ID feature. A few states offer Real ID at no extra cost if you are already renewing your license.

Check your state's DMV website to find the exact fee before you visit. You will usually pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at the office. Some states allow you to pay online when you book your appointment.

Your Real ID arrives by mail within one to three weeks. You will receive a temporary paper receipt at the DMV that you can use for travel or federal building access until your card arrives. Do not throw away this receipt — keep it with you if you fly or visit a federal building before your Real ID card comes in the mail.

If you already have a Real ID, you do not need to visit the DMV

If your current driver's license or ID card has a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner, you already have a Real ID. You do not need to do anything. That card will work for domestic flights and federal building access until it expires.

When your Real ID expires, you can renew it by mail or online in most states — you do not have to visit the office again. Check your state's DMV website to see whether mail or online renewal is available in your state. If you lose your Real ID or it is damaged, you will need to visit the DMV in person to replace it.

Real ID vs. a passport or passport card

A Real ID is not the same as a passport. A Real ID works for domestic flights and federal buildings, but you cannot use it for international travel. If you need to travel outside the United States, you must have a passport or passport card.

A passport is issued by the U.S. State Department, not your state DMV. You explore for one at a passport acceptance facility, which is often located at a post office, library, or courthouse. A passport takes four to six weeks to arrive (or two to three weeks if you pay for expedited processing), and it costs more than a Real ID — usually $130 to $165 for a new passport book.

If you travel internationally often, a passport is worth getting. If you only fly domestically and need to enter federal buildings, a Real ID is sufficient and cheaper.

What happens if you do not have a Real ID after May 7, 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID, passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you show up at the airport without one of these documents, you will not be allowed to board.

You can still fly without a Real ID if you have a passport or passport card. You can also use a military ID or a federally recognized tribal ID. But if your only ID is a regular driver's license without the star, you will need to either get a Real ID before you travel or carry a passport instead.

Federal buildings include courthouses, Social Security offices, and some government office buildings. The rules vary slightly by building, so if you are unsure whether a specific building requires a Real ID, call ahead before you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by mail and get a Real ID at the same time?

It depends on your state. Some states let you upgrade to a Real ID by mail or online if you already have a current driver's license. Others require you to visit in person the first time you get a Real ID. Check your state's DMV website to see what your state allows. If online or mail renewal is available, the website will have a clear option for it.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You can use other documents to prove your identity, such as a military ID, naturalization certificate, or visa. Your state's DMV website lists all accepted documents. If you do not have any of the standard documents, call your DMV office before you visit — staff can tell you what alternatives they accept.

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

You do not need a Real ID just to drive. A regular driver's license works for driving in all 50 states. You only need a Real ID if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. If you never do either, you can keep your regular license.

How long does the Real ID appointment take?

Most appointments take 15 to 30 minutes if you have all your documents ready. Busy offices may take longer. Arrive a few minutes early and bring all required documents in originals or certified copies. If you are missing a document, the office will not be able to process your Real ID that day.

Can I get a Real ID if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a valid visa or work permit. You will need to bring your visa, passport, and work authorization document (such as an I-797 or I-94). Permanent residents can use their green card. Check your state's DMV website for the exact documents required for non-citizens.