Key Takeaways
• DACA recipients with valid EADs and Social Security Numbers can qualify for REAL ID-compliant licenses in most states.
• REAL ID expiration matches EAD expiration; renew both to maintain valid identification for travel and official purposes.
• If DACA status lapses, a foreign passport or valid EAD may be used for domestic travel within the U.S.
This FAQ is meant to provide clear information about the eligibility of people with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) for REAL ID-compliant identification cards and driver’s licenses. It covers who can get a REAL ID as a DACA recipient, what’s needed to apply, how federal and state laws affect this, and answers other common questions. It also explains the link between Employment Authorization Documents, Social Security Numbers, and REAL ID, and what other options are available if you do not qualify. Our goal is to make the rules easy to understand and help you find the right steps for your situation.
Most Popular Questions
1. Are individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) eligible for REAL ID-compliant identification?
Yes. People with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) can usually get REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or identification cards if they meet all state and federal rules. The REAL ID Act specifically lists “approved deferred action status” as a group that can get REAL ID, and DACA is a form of deferred action.
2. What documents must a DACA recipient provide to get a REAL ID?
To get a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card, DACA recipients generally need to show:
- Proof of identity (such as a full legal name and date of birth)
- Social Security Number
- Two documents that prove residency, like a utility bill or rental agreement
- Proof of lawful status, which for DACA recipients is usually a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
You can read about these standard requirements on the Department of Homeland Security’s official REAL ID FAQ page.
3. Is it possible to get a REAL ID if my DACA status expired?
No. Most states will only give a REAL ID to DACA recipients if their status is active and their Employment Authorization Documents have not expired. If your DACA or EAD has expired and you do not have any other lawful status in the United States 🇺🇸, you typically cannot get a limited-term REAL ID.
4. How long is a REAL ID valid for DACA recipients?
The expiration date of your REAL ID card will usually be the same as your current legal status—most often, the expiration date of your EAD. When your EAD expires, your REAL ID will too. If you renew your DACA and receive a new EAD, you will need to go in person to renew your REAL ID.
5. What does ‘limited-term’ or ‘temporary’ REAL ID mean?
A limited-term or temporary REAL ID means it is only valid as long as your legal status lasts. For DACA recipients, that’s typically until the expiration of your Employment Authorization Document. After it expires, you must renew both your DACA status and EAD, and then renew your REAL ID at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
6. If I have a valid Employment Authorization Document, does that count as REAL ID?
Yes. The Department of Homeland Security says a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is considered REAL ID-compliant for purposes like boarding airplanes within the United States 🇺🇸. If you cannot get a REAL ID license, you can use your EAD when flying domestically, as long as it is valid.
7. Why is having a REAL ID important for DACA recipients?
Beginning May 7, 2025, everyone will need a REAL ID-compliant license, identification card, or another approved document to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings. For DACA recipients, getting a REAL ID ensures they can travel easier within the United States 🇺🇸 and enter secure federal offices if needed.
8. If I cannot get a REAL ID, what can I use for domestic flights?
If you are a DACA recipient and cannot get a REAL ID—because, for example, your status is no longer valid—you may use a valid passport from your country of citizenship to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. Check that your passport has not expired and carry it with you when you travel.
9. Do rules for getting a REAL ID with DACA vary from state to state?
Yes. While the federal government sets the basic standards for REAL ID, each state has its own rules and ways to apply them. Most states allow DACA recipients with a valid EAD and a Social Security Number to apply for and receive a REAL ID, but there may be extra paperwork or small policy changes from one state to another.
10. Can DACA recipients get a driver’s license that is not a REAL ID?
Yes. Many states offer standard driver’s licenses or identification cards that do not meet federal REAL ID requirements. These can still be used for driving and most identification needs inside the state. However, they cannot be used for flying domestically or entering some federal sites after May 7, 2025.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
11. What is the REAL ID Act?
The REAL ID Act is a federal law that sets rules for state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses. It was created for security reasons and makes sure all states check important information before issuing these cards. After May 7, 2025, people will need a REAL ID or other approved document to fly within the United States 🇺🇸 or enter secure federal sites.
12. What is Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)?
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a program that lets certain people who came to the United States 🇺🇸 as children, but do not have lawful status, get temporary protection against deportation and apply for work permits (Employment Authorization Documents). DACA does not grant legal immigration status but does allow people to live and work in the country with protection for a set period.
13. What is an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a card that shows you are allowed to work in the United States 🇺🇸. For DACA recipients, the EAD is proof that they have permission to work here and are lawfully present for a set time. This card can also be used to prove eligibility for a REAL ID.
14. Do DACA recipients need a Social Security Number for REAL ID?
Yes. To be eligible for a REAL ID, DACA recipients must have a valid Social Security Number. If you have DACA and a valid EAD, you should be able to apply for a Social Security Number if you do not already have one.
15. What happens if there is a change to DACA or the REAL ID Act in the future?
Both DACA and the REAL ID requirements have changed in the past and could do so again. If new laws or court decisions affect who qualifies, you should check with your state Department of Motor Vehicles or an immigration lawyer for the most up-to-date advice.
16. How can I check if my state issues REAL ID to DACA recipients?
Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website or read the REAL ID and DACA guide from the National Immigration Law Center. This information will show you the latest local policies.
17. Do DACA recipients have to renew their REAL ID in person?
Yes. Most states require DACA recipients to renew their REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card in person at the DMV. That’s because staff need to check original documents every time your legal status is updated.
18. How does the REAL ID affect travel for DACA recipients?
If you have a REAL ID license or ID, you can use it for domestic flights and to enter federal buildings in the United States 🇺🇸. Without it, you must use an alternative, such as a valid EAD or foreign passport. The REAL ID card does not make it easier to travel outside the United States 🇺🇸, and it does not change your immigration status.
19. Is there any special marking on the REAL ID for DACA holders?
Many states mark the REAL ID for DACA recipients as “limited-term” or “temporary.” This marking means the card is only valid as long as your EAD is valid. Always look at your card to check the expiration date and markings.
20. Can my REAL ID be taken away if my DACA is revoked or not renewed?
Yes. If your DACA status is not renewed, or your EAD is no longer valid, the state could cancel or not renew your REAL ID card. You should always keep your status current and notify the DMV as soon as you renew your DACA and EAD.
21. What if I have DACA but never received an EAD?
All DACA recipients are supposed to get an Employment Authorization Document as part of the approval process. If you do not have one, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or an immigration attorney right away.
22. Can my family members use my REAL ID or documents to travel?
No. Your REAL ID, EAD, and Social Security Number are for your use only. Each traveler needs to show their own approved identification.
State Variation Examples
- Most states, like California, issue REAL ID-compliant licenses to DACA recipients who have valid EADs and Social Security Numbers.
- Some states may require additional documents or have extra steps in the application, especially for DACA holders.
- If you move to a new state, check with the new DMV as your current REAL ID might only be valid until it expires, and rules may differ.
Important Notes
- DACA recipients must keep their Employment Authorization Documents and Social Security Numbers current in order to keep their REAL ID valid.
- REAL ID does not change your citizenship or immigration status—it is only for identification and access to travel or certain secure sites.
- Not all standard state driver’s licenses or ID cards are REAL ID-compliant. Check for the special marking (often a star) to see if yours is.
- If your DACA lapses, renew it right away to avoid losing your REAL ID and work eligibility.
Where to Get More Help
- For official information and frequently asked questions, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page.
- To check your state’s rules, find your local Department of Motor Vehicles website.
- For legal advice, speak with an immigration attorney or service organization.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, keeping your documents up to date is the best way for DACA recipients to remain eligible for key benefits like REAL ID, work permits, and driver’s licenses. Always check for new changes in laws or policies that may affect your right to these forms of identification.
Summary:
DACA recipients who have valid Employment Authorization Documents and Social Security Numbers can usually get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. It is important to keep all documents current and know that rules can change by state. If someone cannot get a REAL ID, they can use an EAD or foreign passport when traveling within the United States 🇺🇸. Always renew your DACA and EAD on time to keep your identification and work permission valid, and check for updates on official sites for the latest information.
Learn Today
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) → A U.S. program offering deportation protection and work permits to those who arrived as children and meet certain requirements.
REAL ID → A federal standard for state-issued IDs and driver’s licenses required for domestic flights and federal buildings after May 7, 2025.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) → A card proving temporary legal ability to work in the U.S., essential for DACA recipients’ work and identification rights.
Social Security Number → A unique number issued by the U.S. government for employment, identification, and eligibility for certain federal benefits.
Limited-term REAL ID → A REAL ID-compliant card valid only as long as the cardholder’s legal immigration status remains valid.
This Article in a Nutshell
DACA recipients are often uncertain about obtaining REAL ID-compliant identification. This resource clarifies that with a valid Employment Authorization Document and Social Security Number, most DACA holders can get a REAL ID. Staying updated and renewing documents on time is essential, as requirements can change by state or federal law.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• REAL ID will be required to enter US military bases starting May 2025
• REAL ID soon required for entry to federal buildings and nuclear plants
• REAL ID won’t be needed to enter Social Security offices in 2025
• REAL ID to Be Required for Green Card Holders on US Flights in 2025
• Lawful Permanent Residents: What to Know About REAL ID Requirements
