A Real ID card is a driver's license or state ID that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID card to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. A Real ID card looks like a regular driver's license or state ID, but it has a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner. The star is the only visible difference — the real difference is what went into making it. Your state had to verify your identity, citizenship, and Social Security number before issuing it, using documents like your birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card.

You do not need a Real ID card to drive. You need it only for federal purposes: flying within the United States, entering military bases, and accessing certain federal buildings. If you have a passport or passport card, you can use either of those instead of a Real ID card for flights and federal buildings. If you do not have a Real ID card and do not have a passport, you will need to show a different form of ID at the airport — but that ID must be one of the documents your state accepts as a secondary form of identification, and the process takes longer.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID card is a state-issued driver's license or ID card with a gold star that proves you passed federal identity verification.
  • You need a Real ID card, passport, or passport card to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building starting May 7, 2025.
  • Getting a Real ID card requires you to bring original documents — usually a birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card — to your state's DMV or equivalent office.
  • You can use your current driver's license or state ID to fly and enter federal buildings until May 7, 2025, but after that date you will need a Real ID card, passport, or passport card.
  • If you already have a passport or passport card, you do not need to get a Real ID card for federal purposes.

What documents you need to bring to get a Real ID card

Your state's DMV will ask you to bring an original or certified copy of documents that prove your identity, citizenship, and Social Security number. The exact list varies slightly by state, but most states require the same core documents. You will need one document that proves your identity — a passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID from another state. You will need one document that proves your citizenship — a U.S. birth certificate, passport, passport card, or Certificate of Naturalization. You will need your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 or tax return.

You will also need to bring two documents that prove your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Some states accept a government letter or insurance document instead. Bring your current driver's license or state ID as well. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. Do not bring photocopies unless your state specifically says certified copies are acceptable — most states want originals.

How the Real ID verification process works at the DMV

When you arrive at the DMV, a staff member will examine your documents to make sure they are genuine and match the information you provided on your process. They will check your birth certificate against state vital records databases. They will verify your Social Security number with the Social Security Administration. They will photograph you and take your fingerprints. This process is more thorough than a standard license renewal because the federal government requires it.

The whole visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, though wait times at your local DMV office may be longer. Some states allow you to make an appointment online, which can shorten your wait. After the DMV approves your process, your Real ID card will be mailed to you within one to three weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license or ID at the DMV that you can use until your card arrives.

Real ID cards versus regular driver's licenses and state IDs

A regular driver's license or state ID issued before your state began issuing Real ID cards does not have the gold star and does not meet federal requirements for flying or entering federal buildings. If your license or ID was issued before your state started the Real ID program, you can still use it to drive, but you cannot use it for federal purposes after May 7, 2025. You can renew your regular license as a Real ID card the next time you renew, or you can request a Real ID card now without waiting for your renewal date.

Some people choose to keep a regular (non-Real ID) driver's license and use a passport for federal purposes instead. This is a valid choice if you already have a passport or passport card. The advantage is that you do not have to bring as many documents to the DMV. The disadvantage is that a passport costs more and takes longer to obtain than upgrading to a Real ID card.

Cost and timing for getting a Real ID card

The cost of a Real ID card is the same as a regular driver's license or state ID in your state — usually between $20 and $50, depending on where you live and how long the card is valid. Some states charge a small additional fee for the Real ID verification process, but most do not. If you are renewing your license anyway, you can request a Real ID card at no extra cost in most states.

The timeline depends on when you explore. If you explore now, you will have your card well before May 7, 2025. If you wait until April 2025, you may face long lines at the DMV and delays in receiving your card. The DMV cannot may provide your card will arrive before the important date if you explore in the final weeks. Plan to visit the DMV at least four to six weeks before you need to fly or enter a federal building.

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

If you do not have a Real ID card, passport, or passport card on May 7, 2025, you can still fly domestically and enter federal buildings, but you will need to bring additional identification. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will accept a combination of documents, such as your current driver's license plus a birth certificate, or your current driver's license plus a utility bill. The process takes longer because the TSA agent has to verify your identity using multiple documents instead of one.

At federal buildings, the rules vary by building. Some buildings will turn you away if you do not have a Real ID card, passport, or passport card. Others will allow you to enter with a regular driver's license and additional proof of identity. Contact the specific federal building you plan to visit if you are unsure about their rules.

Real ID cards for people with name changes or immigration status

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will verify the name change and issue your Real ID card in your current legal name. If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen, bring your Certificate of Naturalization instead of a birth certificate. If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), you cannot get a Real ID card, but you can use your green card for federal purposes, including flying domestically.

If you are a transgender person and your birth certificate does not match your current legal name or gender marker, contact your state's DMV before you visit to ask what documents they will accept. Some states allow you to bring a court order or amended birth certificate. Other states have different rules. Calling ahead will save you a trip if your documents do not match.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. A passport or passport card meets federal requirements for flying and entering federal buildings, so you do not need a Real ID card if you have either one. A passport takes longer and costs more to obtain than a Real ID card, but it is valid for international travel as well.

What if I lost my birth certificate or cannot find it?

Contact your state's vital records office to request a certified copy. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30. Some states allow you to order online. If you cannot get a birth certificate, ask your DMV what other documents they will accept — a passport, passport card, or Certificate of Naturalization may work instead.

Do I need a Real ID card to drive?

No. A Real ID card is required only for federal purposes: flying domestically, entering military bases, and accessing certain federal buildings. You can continue to drive with a regular driver's license or state ID.

Can I renew my license online and request a Real ID card?

Most states do not allow you to get a Real ID card by mail or online. You must visit the DMV in person so they can verify your documents and take your photograph and fingerprints. Some states allow you to fill out the process online before your visit to save time.

What if my address on my documents does not match my current address?

Bring two documents that show your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The DMV will update your address on your Real ID card even if your other documents show an old address.