REAL ID: Here’s why you should get yours now.
After multiple extensions and delays that have become something of a running joke in the travel community, the REAL ID deadline is finally set in stone. Starting May 7, 2025, all air travelers within the United States will need to present either a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification for domestic flights.
The Benefits of Early Application
While May 2025 might seem far away, there are compelling reasons to get your REAL ID sooner rather than later:
-DMV wait times are expected to increase dramatically as the deadline approaches, with some locations already reporting extended delays.
-Many states are experiencing staffing shortages at DMV offices, leading to reduced capacity.
-Processing times may be longer due to the increased volume of applications.
-Getting it done early eliminates last-minute stress and ensures you’re ready for future travel.
What Exactly Is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced security standards established by the REAL ID Act of 2005. You can identify a REAL ID-compliant card by looking for a star in the upper right corner. These enhanced security features make it harder to forge and help prevent identity theft.
Required Documentation Checklist
When visiting the DMV, you’ll need to present documentation in four categories:
A. Identity and Date of Birth (one of the following):
Valid, unexpired U.S. passport
Original or certified copy of U.S. birth certificate
Consular Report of Birth Abroad
Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card
B. Social Security Number (one of the following):
Social Security card
W-2 form
Pay stub with full SSN
Non-SSA 1099 form
C. State Residency (two from different sources, dated within 90 days):
Utility bills (water, gas, electric, etc.)
Bank statements
Mortgage statements
Lease or rental agreement
Property tax bill
Insurance documents
D. Legal Presence (if applicable):
Valid U.S. passport
Birth certificate
Immigration documents
Pro Tips for Getting Your REAL ID
1. Make an Appointment
Most DMV offices offer appointment scheduling online
Some states have specific REAL ID appointment slots
Morning appointments typically have shorter wait times
2. Use Alternative Locations
AAA offices in many states can process REAL ID applications
These locations often have shorter wait times and more available appointments
Some states offer REAL ID services at satellite offices or mobile units
3. Prepare Your Documents
Make copies of all required documents before your appointment
Use your state’s online document checker tool if available
Ensure all documents are current and unexpired
Bring original documents or certified copies – photocopies won’t be accepted
Do You Really Need a REAL ID?
While not absolutely necessary, having a REAL ID offers several advantages:
Convenient for domestic air travel
Serves as both your driver’s license and TSA-approved ID
Less expensive to replace than a passport ($30-50 vs. $130+)
More convenient to carry than a passport
Required for accessing certain federal facilities
Alternative Acceptable IDs include:
U.S. passport or passport card
Military ID
Enhanced Driver’s License
Permanent Resident Card
Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
Name Changes
If your current name differs from the one on your identity documents due to marriage, divorce, or other legal name changes, you’ll need to provide documentation of all name changes, such as:
Marriage certificate(s)
Divorce decree(s)
Court order for legal name change
Non-U.S. Citizens
Additional or different documentation may be required for non-U.S. citizens, including:
Valid foreign passport
I-551 Permanent Resident Card
Employment Authorization Document
Other valid U.S. immigration documents
Cost and Renewal Information
The cost of a REAL ID varies by state, typically ranging from $25 to $60. Some states charge an additional fee for upgrading an existing license to a REAL ID. Most REAL IDs follow the same renewal period as standard driver’s licenses in your state, typically 4-8 years.
Planning Ahead
To avoid the last-minute rush, consider these timing factors:
Application processing can take 2-3 weeks in some states
Some documents may need to be ordered in advance (birth certificates, name change documents)
DMV appointments might be booked weeks in advance closer to the deadline
Replacement documents like birth certificates can take several weeks to obtain
Twist’s Take: If you haven’t already, get your REAL ID now. Really.
