7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline

Post Published June 5, 2024

See how everyone can now afford to fly Business Class and book 5 Star Hotels with Mighty Travels Premium! Get started for free.



7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Know Your State's Compliance Status





As the 2025 deadline for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license approaches, it is crucial for travelers to stay informed about their state's compliance status.

While all 50 states are now fully compliant with the REAL ID Act, the specific requirements and processes for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license can vary.

Individuals should check their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for the latest information on acceptable documents and any necessary appointments or fees.

Real ID-compliant licenses are not mandatory for domestic flights until the 2025 deadline, but some states are already phasing them in earlier to avoid last-minute rushes.

The US Department of Homeland Security has granted extensions to several states that were not initially compliant, allowing them more time to meet the Real ID requirements.

Obtaining a Real ID-compliant license may require additional documentation, such as a social security number, proof of legal name change, and two forms of address verification, which can vary by state.

The cost of a Real ID-compliant license is typically slightly higher than a standard state-issued license, with fees ranging from $5 to $30 depending on the state.

While all 50 states are now compliant with the Real ID Act, some states have a higher percentage of their population holding Real ID-compliant licenses than others.

The Department of Homeland Security has the authority to issue federal waivers to states that are unable to meet the Real ID compliance deadline, but this is a last resort option.

What else is in this post?

  1. 7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Know Your State's Compliance Status
  2. 7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Gather Required Documentation
  3. 7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Schedule a DMV Appointment
  4. 7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Present Original Documents
  5. 7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Complete Biometric Requirements
  6. 7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Pay Applicable Fees
  7. 7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Receive Your REAL ID-Compliant License

7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Gather Required Documentation





To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, individuals will need to gather specific documentation, including proof of identity, social security number, and residency.

The required documents may vary by state, so it is crucial to check with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the exact requirements before visiting.

Travelers should plan ahead and be prepared for potential wait times when applying for their REAL ID-compliant license.

The Real ID Act was initially passed by Congress in 2005, but the deadline for full compliance has been extended multiple times, with the current deadline set for May 7,

Obtaining a Real ID-compliant license requires providing documentation that may include a certified birth certificate, valid US passport, Social Security card, and two proofs of residential address, but the specific requirements can vary by state.

In some states, like Illinois, individuals have the option to choose between a standard state-issued ID or a Real ID-compliant card, rather than being automatically issued the Real ID version.

The Department of Homeland Security has the authority to grant extensions to states that are unable to meet the Real ID compliance deadline, but this is considered a last resort option.

The cost of a Real ID-compliant license is typically slightly higher than a standard state-issued ID, with fees ranging from $5 to $30 depending on the state.

While all 50 states are now compliant with the Real ID Act, some states have a higher percentage of their population holding Real ID-compliant licenses than others, which could lead to longer wait times at DMV offices as the 2025 deadline approaches.

Starting May 3, 2023, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another accepted form of identification to fly within the United States, even before the 2025 nationwide deadline.


7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Schedule a DMV Appointment





As the 2025 deadline for the Real ID-compliant license approaches, it is crucial for travelers to schedule an appointment with their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain the necessary documentation and upgrade their driver's license.

To ensure a smooth process, individuals should check their state's DMV website for specific requirements, gather the required documents, and save the confirmation code provided after scheduling the appointment, which will serve as proof of the scheduled visit.

The Real ID Act was passed by the US Congress in 2005, but the initial compliance deadline has been extended multiple times, with the current deadline set for May 7,

To obtain a Real ID-compliant license, individuals must provide specific documentation, including proof of identity, social security number, and residency, but the exact requirements can vary by state.

The cost of a Real ID-compliant license is typically slightly higher than a standard state-issued ID, with fees ranging from $5 to $30 depending on the state.

While all 50 states are now compliant with the Real ID Act, some states have a higher percentage of their population holding Real ID-compliant licenses than others, which could lead to longer wait times at DMV offices as the 2025 deadline approaches.

The Department of Homeland Security has the authority to grant extensions to states that are unable to meet the Real ID compliance deadline, but this is considered a last resort option.

Starting May 3, 2023, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another accepted form of identification to fly within the United States, even before the 2025 nationwide deadline.

The Real ID-compliant license is indicated by a star or other symbol in the upper-right corner of the ID, making it easy to distinguish from a non-compliant license.

Some states, like Illinois, offer the option to choose between a standard state-issued ID or a Real ID-compliant card, rather than automatically issuing the Real ID version.


7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Present Original Documents





Obtaining a Real ID-compliant license requires presenting original documents to prove one's identity, Social Security number, and lawful status in the United States.

The Department of Homeland Security has established a strict protocol for verifying these documents, which typically involve providing a valid US passport, permanent resident card, employment authorization document, or birth certificate.

Failure to present the required original documents can result in delays or the inability to obtain a Real ID-compliant license before the 2025 deadline.

The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005, but the initial compliance deadline has been extended multiple times, with the current deadline set for May 7,

To obtain a Real ID-compliant license, individuals must present original documents, such as a birth certificate or passport, rather than photocopies or digital versions.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has strict protocols in place to verify the authenticity of identification documents, including the use of advanced security features.

Some states, like Illinois, offer the option to choose between a standard state-issued ID or a Real ID-compliant card, rather than automatically issuing the Real ID version.

The cost of a Real ID-compliant license is typically slightly higher than a standard state-issued ID, with fees ranging from $5 to $30 depending on the state.

Certain forms of identification, such as a valid US passport or military ID, may be accepted for air travel even without a Real ID-compliant license.

The Real ID-compliant license is indicated by a star or other symbol in the upper-right corner of the ID, making it easy to distinguish from a non-compliant license.

The Department of Homeland Security has the authority to grant extensions to states that are unable to meet the Real ID compliance deadline, but this is considered a last resort option.

Starting May 3, 2023, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another accepted form of identification to fly within the United States, even before the 2025 nationwide deadline.


7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Complete Biometric Requirements





To be Real ID-compliant, licenses must meet certain biometric requirements, such as incorporating anti-counterfeiting features, digital photographs, and machine-readable technology.

When applying for a Real ID-compliant license, individuals will need to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints, to ensure the document's security and authenticity.

The complete biometric requirements for a Real ID-compliant license can vary slightly by state, so it's important for travelers to check with their local Department of Motor Vehicles for the specific documentation needed.

Biometric data, such as fingerprints, is required to be collected and stored by state DMVs for Real ID-compliant licenses to enhance security and prevent identity fraud.

The Real ID Act mandates the use of high-resolution digital photographs that can be scanned and used for facial recognition technology to verify the identity of license holders.

Retinal scans, though not currently required, are being explored by some states as an additional biometric security feature for Real ID-compliant licenses.

The biometric data collected for Real ID-compliant licenses is stored in a centralized database, accessible by the Department of Homeland Security and other authorized federal agencies.

Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as missing fingerprints or visual impairments, may be exempt from providing certain biometric data for their Real ID-compliant licenses.

The biometric data collected for Real ID-compliant licenses is subject to strict security protocols and encryption to protect against unauthorized access or misuse.

In some states, applicants for Real ID-compliant licenses are required to provide a live signature sample that can be digitized and incorporated into the license design.

The biometric requirements for Real ID-compliant licenses have been criticized by some civil liberties groups as an unnecessary invasion of privacy and potential for government overreach.

Researchers are exploring the use of advanced technologies, such as iris scanning and palm vein recognition, as potential future biometric security features for Real ID-compliant licenses.

The collection and storage of biometric data for Real ID-compliant licenses has raised concerns about potential data breaches and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive personal information.


7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Pay Applicable Fees





The fees for obtaining a Real ID-compliant license vary by state, usually ranging from $10 to $60.

It is essential to check with your state's DMV office for the most up-to-date fee information, as some states may charge slightly more for the enhanced security features required for a Real ID-compliant license.

Additionally, note that some states offer an optional enhanced driver's license (EDL), which can be used for both domestic air travel and international border crossings, but typically costs more than a regular Real ID-compliant license.

The fees for obtaining a Real ID-compliant license can vary significantly by state, ranging from as low as $10 to as high as $

Some states offer an optional enhanced driver's license (EDL) that can be used for both domestic air travel and international border crossings, but these EDLs typically cost more than regular Real ID-compliant licenses.

In Illinois, individuals have the option to choose between a standard state-issued ID or a Real ID-compliant card, rather than being automatically issued the Real ID version, which may impact the applicable fees.

The Department of Homeland Security has the authority to grant extensions to states that are unable to meet the Real ID compliance deadline, which could potentially impact the fee structure in those states.

Certain states, like New York, have implemented surcharges on top of the standard Real ID-compliant license fee to help offset the administrative costs associated with the program.

The fees for obtaining a Real ID-compliant license can be waived or reduced for specific groups, such as seniors or individuals with financial hardship, depending on the state's policies.

Some states offer discounts or incentives for residents who renew their licenses early and upgrade to the Real ID-compliant version before the 2025 deadline.

The fees for obtaining a Real ID-compliant license may be higher for individuals who need to make multiple visits to the DMV to provide the required documentation or complete the application process.

In states with a high demand for Real ID-compliant licenses, the applicable fees may be subject to periodic increases to manage the administrative costs and processing times.

Travelers should be aware that the fees for obtaining a Real ID-compliant license may be higher for non-residents or individuals who do not have a valid state-issued driver's license.

The Department of Homeland Security has been exploring the use of biometric technologies, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, to enhance the security features of Real ID-compliant licenses, which could potentially impact the applicable fees in the future.


7 Crucial Steps to Ensure You Have a Real ID-Compliant License Before the 2025 Deadline - Receive Your REAL ID-Compliant License





As the 2025 deadline for REAL ID-compliant licenses approaches, it is crucial for travelers to take the necessary steps to obtain their new ID cards.

Individuals can apply for or renew their driver's license or state identification and choose to make it REAL ID-compliant, which will be indicated by a star marking on the top right of the card.

Beginning in 2025, federal agencies will require REAL ID-compliant identification for domestic flights and entry into certain federal facilities.

The REAL ID Act was initially passed by Congress in 2005, but the compliance deadline has been extended multiple times, with the current deadline set for May 7,

Some states, like Illinois, offer the option to choose between a standard state-issued ID or a REAL ID-compliant card, rather than automatically issuing the REAL ID version.

Obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license may require providing biometric data, such as fingerprints, to enhance security and prevent identity fraud.

The biometric data collected for REAL ID-compliant licenses is stored in a centralized database, accessible by the Department of Homeland Security and other authorized federal agencies.

Certain forms of identification, such as a valid US passport or military ID, may be accepted for air travel even without a REAL ID-compliant license.

The Department of Homeland Security has the authority to grant extensions to states that are unable to meet the REAL ID compliance deadline, but this is considered a last resort option.

The fees for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license can vary significantly by state, ranging from $10 to $60, and some states offer optional enhanced driver's licenses (EDLs) that are more expensive.

In some states, applicants for REAL ID-compliant licenses are required to provide a live signature sample that can be digitized and incorporated into the license design.

The biometric requirements for REAL ID-compliant licenses have been criticized by some civil liberties groups as an unnecessary invasion of privacy and a potential for government overreach.

Researchers are exploring the use of advanced biometric technologies, such as iris scanning and palm vein recognition, as potential future security features for REAL ID-compliant licenses.

The collection and storage of biometric data for REAL ID-compliant licenses has raised concerns about potential data breaches and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive personal information.

Starting May 3, 2023, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another accepted form of identification to fly within the United States, even before the 2025 nationwide deadline.
See how everyone can now afford to fly Business Class and book 5 Star Hotels with Mighty Travels Premium! Get started for free.