Key Takeaways
• REAL ID required for flights and federal buildings starting May 7, 2025.
• DMVs will continue issuing REAL IDs after the May 7, 2025 deadline.
• You need identity, Social Security, and address proof to get a REAL ID.
The following FAQ provides clear, detailed answers about the REAL ID, the role of the DMV, and what happens after the May 7, 2025, deadline. This information will help you understand what the REAL ID is for, how to get it, and what changes after the federal enforcement date. The goal is to clear up common questions, simple or complex, and help everyone prepare for federal ID requirements in the United States 🇺🇸.
Most Popular Questions
Will DMVs stop giving out REAL ID after the May 7, 2025, deadline?
No, DMVs will not stop giving out REAL ID documents after May 7, 2025.
The May 7, 2025, date is when the federal government will start requiring a REAL ID or another approved ID for certain activities, like boarding domestic flights or entering secure federal buildings. However, you can still get a REAL ID at your local DMV after this date. The deadline marks when rules change for travelers and people needing federal building access—not when DMVs stop issuing these cards.
Do I need to have a REAL ID before May 7, 2025?
You do not need to get a REAL ID by the deadline unless you want to use it for certain federal purposes starting May 7, 2025.
– You can still travel and use your regular ID up until that date.
– After May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another approved document (like a passport) to board a domestic flight or enter some federal buildings.
General Questions about REAL ID
What is the REAL ID?
The REAL ID is a special kind of driver’s license or identification card that meets strict federal standards set by the United States 🇺🇸 government.
– It looks similar to a regular driver’s license but has a star in the top corner.
– The REAL ID helps prove who you are and that your documents have been checked carefully by your state’s DMV.
Why is the REAL ID needed?
Congress created the REAL ID law after September 11, 2001, to make it harder for people to use fake identification.
– The law sets a minimum standard across all state-issued IDs to make them more secure.
– Starting May 7, 2025, if you want to fly inside the United States 🇺🇸 or enter certain federal buildings, you’ll need a REAL ID or another approved form of ID.
The May 7, 2025, Deadline
What happens on May 7, 2025?
On May 7, 2025, the United States 🇺🇸 government will start enforcing the REAL ID requirement for:
– Boarding domestic flights
– Entering certain federal buildings
– Visiting military bases
If you don’t have a REAL ID by this date, you must use an approved alternative, like a passport.
Does May 7, 2025, mean DMVs stop offering REAL ID?
No.
– DMVs in every state will continue issuing REAL ID cards after May 7, 2025.
– The date is only the start of when federal officials will check for a REAL ID or other approved document at airport security or federal buildings.
– As reported by VisaVerge.com, even after the deadline, you can visit your DMV to get a REAL ID if you still need one.
How does this deadline affect everyday activities?
For most activities, like driving, banking, or buying alcohol, your regular ID or license will still work in most cases.
– The deadline only changes what you need when flying inside the United States 🇺🇸 or entering some government buildings.
Applying for REAL ID at the DMV
Can I get a REAL ID at the DMV after May 7, 2025?
Yes.
– There is no cutoff at the DMV for applying for a REAL ID.
– State DMVs, such as in California and Illinois, will keep issuing REAL IDs after May 7, 2025.
– In fact, in California, some DMV offices are offering weekend and extended hours to make it easier to apply. For details on extended hours, visit the California DMV’s announcement page.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to get a REAL ID?
You have to bring several specific documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and where you live.
Most DMVs will ask for:
– An original or certified copy of your birth certificate or a valid passport
– Proof of your Social Security number (like a Social Security card or tax form)
– Two documents that show your address (such as a utility bill or bank statement)
Note: Requirements may differ slightly by state. Check your state’s DMV website for exact instructions.
Can I still use my old license if I don’t have a REAL ID after May 7, 2025?
Your old license will still work for things like driving or proving your age.
But, after May 7, 2025, it will not work to board a domestic flight or get into some federal buildings. You’ll need either:
– REAL ID
– Passport
– Another TSA-approved document
State-Specific Examples
How does California’s DMV handle the REAL ID after May 7, 2025?
- In California, the DMV will continue giving out REAL IDs after the deadline.
- Some DMV offices in California have added Saturday hours or open early for REAL ID appointments.
- This helps people who are busy during the week or need extra time to collect documents.
For more information on California’s REAL ID process, see the official DMV information page.
What if I live in Illinois or another state?
The rules are the same:
– DMVs in all states, including Illinois, will not stop giving out REAL IDs after the May 7, 2025, deadline.
– Each state’s DMV sets its office hours and may offer special times or extra help as the deadline gets closer.
After the Deadline: What Changes?
What if I travel after May 7, 2025, without a REAL ID?
If you try to board a domestic flight or enter some federal buildings and only have a regular driver’s license, you may be turned away.
You must show a REAL ID or another approved ID, like a valid passport.
- TSA security agents will check for these at the airport.
- If you don’t have the right ID, you may miss your flight.
Keep in mind:
If you forget to apply for a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you can apply at the DMV at any time after, but you may not be able to fly or enter certain buildings until you have the card in hand.
Will REAL IDs be harder to get after May 7, 2025?
No. The process to get a REAL ID at the DMV does not change after the deadline.
– You’ll still need to bring the same documents and visit a DMV office.
– There may be more people applying as the deadline passes, so longer wait times are possible.
– Some states may keep special hours to help with extra demand.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a REAL ID and a regular driver’s license?
A REAL ID meets stricter federal rules. It is marked with a star and is accepted for federal purposes (like flying or entering federal buildings).
A regular license is only good for everyday uses like driving, not for domestic flights after May 7, 2025.
What if I am not a U.S. citizen? Can I get a REAL ID?
Laws about REAL ID for people who are not U.S. citizens can differ by state.
– Most states let lawful permanent residents and some non-citizens apply for a REAL ID if they have the right documents.
– You will typically need proof of lawful status, like a green card, work visa, or other immigration documents.
Tip:
Check your state DMV website to see which immigration documents they accept and which forms you need to bring.
What if I am a student or temporary visitor?
Students, international visitors, and temporary workers may be able to get a REAL ID if their status is legal and they have the required documents.
– The REAL ID may expire at the same time your legal stay ends.
– Bring proof of your student or visitor status, plus your passport, I-94, and any other required papers.
Busting Myths about the REAL ID and the DMV
Will the DMV run out of REAL ID cards after May 7, 2025?
No.
– There is no limit on the number of REAL IDs a DMV can issue.
– DMVs are prepared to issue REAL IDs for years after the deadline.
Is the REAL ID a national ID card?
No—the REAL ID is not a national ID card.
– Each state makes and gives out its own REAL ID cards.
– They just follow special federal rules so all REAL IDs are accepted in any state for federal purposes.
Do I have to have a REAL ID, or can I use something else?
You do not have to get a REAL ID if you don’t want to.
– You can use a passport or another government-approved ID for flights or federal buildings.
– The REAL ID just makes it easier for most people who travel within the United States 🇺🇸.
How can I find more help or information?
If you have questions about REAL ID, the DMV, or what you need to travel, you should:
– Visit your state’s DMV website, like dmv.ca.gov for California.
– Check the official United States 🇺🇸 Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page.
– See usa.gov/real-id for a simple federal overview.
Summary and Key Takeaways
- The May 7, 2025, deadline is for federal enforcement, not for ending REAL ID at a DMV.
- You can continue to get a REAL ID at any DMV after this date.
- Only certain activities require a REAL ID after the deadline—mainly flying domestically and entering secure federal sites.
- Bring all needed documents to the DMV and understand your state’s exact process.
- There is no need to panic if you do not get a REAL ID by the deadline, but plan ahead if you need to fly or enter federal buildings after May 7, 2025.
- For more details, check your state DMV or visit one of the official links above.
If you are unsure or need help, reach out to your local DMV or read the latest information from the Department of Homeland Security. For ongoing updates and easy-to-understand immigration news, you can also follow VisaVerge.com. This ensures you stay informed about important changes like the REAL ID rollout.
Note: Always check for updates since rules can change, and some DMVs may adjust office hours or procedures to handle more applications, especially as the May 7, 2025, deadline approaches.
Learn Today
REAL ID → A state-issued ID or driver’s license meeting federal security standards, marked by a star, required for flights and federal access.
DMV → Department of Motor Vehicles, a state agency responsible for driver’s licenses, state IDs, and vehicle registrations.
Federal Enforcement Date → The date when new federal rules start being enforced; for REAL ID, this is May 7, 2025.
TSA → Transportation Security Administration, responsible for airport security and checking required identification documents for travelers.
Proof of Legal Status → Documents that verify you are legally allowed to be in the U.S., such as a green card, visa, or citizenship papers.
This Article in a Nutshell
Starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID cards will become mandatory for domestic flights and entry into certain federal buildings. However, DMVs will still offer REAL ID after the deadline. Prepare by gathering identity documents and checking your state DMV’s requirements so you won’t face travel or access issues later.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• How long it takes to get your REAL ID card in the mail from the DMV
• Is Citizenship Verified After DMV Registration?
• Resolving I20/Visa Status Issues for DMV Learner Permit: Understanding Initial vs Updated I20
• Getting a Driver’s License on an F1 Visa: The DMV Application Process for International Students
• REAL ID: Look for a gold star to confirm your state-issued ID
