How to get a REAL ID
The process of getting a REAL ID is similar to the process of getting a standard driver’s license. You can visit your state’s driver licensing agency to apply for a REAL ID. Your state will likely require more documentation than what’s needed for a standard driver’s license.
Here’s what you need to know.
Documents to bring to the DMV for a REAL ID
Check with your state’s DMV to confirm the documents required for your REAL ID. You’ll typically need proof of your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and lawful status.
This means, at minimum, you should plan to bring:
Proof of identity: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. Passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or a paystub or paycheck
Proof of residency: A deed, mortgage statement, lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement proving your state residency
Required time and money for a REAL ID
In general, it takes one to four weeks to receive your REAL ID in the mail, depending on your state’s DMV.
Costs also vary by state, and some states add processing and renewal fees. For example, in Pennsylvania, you have to pay a one-time fee of $30 for the REAL ID, plus the standard $39.50 for general license renewal. In New York, you only have to pay transaction fees. In general, you’ll pay at least $30 and up to $70 to get your REAL ID.
Visit your state’s DMV website to find information about fees, wait times, and an estimate of when you’ll receive your REAL ID after applying for it.
REAL ID alternatives for domestic travel
Traveling domestically without a REAL ID is still possible. Some alternative forms of identification include a U.S. or foreign government-issued passport, an Enhanced Driver’s License, or a DHS trusted travel card.
Here’s a list of alternatives that are accepted for domestic travel below, according to the TSA:
U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
HSPD-12 PIV card
Foreign government-issued passport
Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
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