Starting May 7, 2025, if you live in the United States, you will need a Real ID to fly within the country, access certain government facilities, or enter places like military bases and nuclear power plants. Without it, you’ll have to use your passport for those purposes, even for domestic flights.
The Real ID isn’t just a regular driver’s license—it’s a more secure version. It’s being introduced to improve security and reduce identity fraud. The law that created it, called the Real ID Act, was passed by Congress in 2005. It sets new security standards for identification cards, like driver’s licenses or state ID cards.
What Exactly is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a state-issued ID or driver’s license with extra security features. These are added to make it harder for someone to forge your identity. From May 7, 2025, you’ll need a Real ID for:
1) Boarding domestic flights (even if you’re not leaving the U.S.)
2) Entering certain federal buildings
3) Gaining access to secure locations like military bases or nuclear facilities
If you don’t want a Real ID, you can still travel domestically, but you’ll need to carry your passport instead of just your driver’s license. The new law will also stop TSA officers from accepting standard IDs that don’t meet the updated security standards.
Who Needs a Real ID?
Anyone who is 18 or older and plans to fly within the U.S. or visit certain government buildings will need a Real ID. If you already have a passport, you can use that instead of a Real ID, but it’s more convenient to get one so you don’t have to carry your passport for domestic flights.
Some states, like Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont, also issue Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs). These licenses already meet Real ID standards and have a small American flag marking. So if you have an EDL, you’re all set.
How to Tell if You Already Have a Real ID
Check the top right corner of your driver’s license or state-issued ID. If it has a star in the corner, it’s a Real ID. If you recently renewed your license, it might already be a Real ID or an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that meets the same standards. If you see an American flag instead of a star, that means you have an EDL. If there’s no star or flag, you’ll need to upgrade.
How Do You Get a Real ID?
To get a Real ID, you’ll need to go to your state’s driver’s licensing office (usually the Department of Motor Vehicles or DMV). As for the State of California, you can find the details on the California DMV portal here: dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/real-id/real-id-checklist/
The process may be slightly different depending on where you live, but here’s what you’ll generally need to do:
Make an appointment:
Many states require you to schedule an appointment at the DMV. You can usually do this online.
Gather your documents:
You’ll need to bring a few important documents with you, such as:
1) Proof of citizenship or legal residency: This could be your birth certificate, passport, or other government document.
2) Your Social Security card: Or another document that shows your Social Security number.
3) Proof of where you live: You’ll need two different documents, like a utility bill, rental agreement, or bank statement, to prove your address.
Visit the DMV:
Once you’ve gathered your documents and made an appointment, head to the DMV to apply for your Real ID.
Each state may have slightly different requirements, so it’s a good idea to check your state’s DMV website or visit the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website, which will guide you to the right information for your state.
How Much Does a Real ID Cost?
There’s usually no extra cost to upgrade to a Real ID, but you’ll still need to pay the normal fees your DMV charges for a driver’s license or ID renewal. If your state offers Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs), they cost a bit more—usually around $30.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Real ID may seem like an extra hassle, but it will make travel and accessing secure locations easier in the future. It’s a good idea to get your Real ID before the May 7, 2025 deadline, so you’re not caught off guard when you need to board a plane or visit a federal building.
For more detailed information or to start your application process, visit the DHS website and follow the instructions for your state.
