Key Takeaways
• Most DACA recipients with valid EAD and SSN can obtain a REAL ID in most states.
• REAL IDs for DACA recipients are marked limited-term and expire with EAD validity.
• After May 7, 2025, REAL ID is required for domestic flights and federal building access.
This FAQ provides clear, up-to-date information about the eligibility of individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) for REAL ID-compliant identification, answering the most frequent questions. The FAQ also addresses state variations, renewal requirements, and what REAL ID means for DACA recipients. This guide is especially useful for DACA recipients, families, and those interested in their rights regarding REAL ID in the United States 🇺🇸.
Most Popular Questions
1. Are DACA recipients eligible for REAL ID-compliant identification?
2. What documents does a DACA recipient need to apply for a REAL ID?
3. Do all states let DACA recipients get a REAL ID?
4. How long does a DACA recipient’s REAL ID last?
5. Why is REAL ID-compliance important?
6. What happens if a DACA recipient’s status changes?
General Eligibility
Are individuals with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) eligible for REAL ID?
Yes, people with DACA status can usually get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card in most states across the United States 🇺🇸. This is possible as long as they meet specific requirements set by the federal REAL ID Act. Deferred action, the status given under DACA, counts as lawful status for REAL ID purposes.
What makes someone with DACA eligible for REAL ID?
To qualify for a REAL ID-compliant card as a DACA recipient, you must have:
- A current and valid DACA approval
- A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which shows you have permission to work in the United States 🇺🇸
- A valid Social Security Number (SSN), which the government uses to track your work and earnings
These three documents help prove your lawful presence and identity when applying at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What is the REAL ID Act?
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act sets higher security standards for states to issue driver’s licenses and identification cards. After May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant card to do certain things, such as board federally regulated commercial airplanes and enter some federal buildings.
How does deferred action under DACA count for REAL ID?
Section 202(c)(2)(B)(viii) of the REAL ID Act allows states to issue temporary, or limited-term, REAL ID cards to those with approved deferred action status. This means that a current DACA approval, with a valid EAD, qualifies as proof to get a REAL ID in most places.
Application and Documentation
What documents must a DACA recipient submit for a REAL ID?
When visiting the DMV, a DACA recipient must usually bring:
- A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – this is the main proof of their approved status
- Their Social Security Number card or a letter verifying their SSN
- Proof of address (for example, a utility bill or lease document showing your current address)
It is important to check your state’s DMV website or office for a list of exact acceptable documents. Some states may also ask for additional records, like proof of date of birth or name change documents, if your name on the EAD doesn’t match other paperwork.
Is the Employment Authorization Document enough for REAL ID?
An EAD alone is not enough. You must also have a valid Social Security Number and show proof of your address. The combination of these documents proves your identity, legal presence, and where you live.
Where can I find the official application forms?
Application forms for REAL ID are available at state DMV offices. For information on DACA, see the official USCIS DACA page.
State Differences
Do all states allow DACA recipients to get a REAL ID?
Most states do, but not all. Each state can set its own rules as long as the rules follow the REAL ID Act. Some states have created extra hurdles for DACA recipients, even if they have an EAD and a valid SSN. According to VisaVerge.com, Arizona, Michigan, and Nebraska have set extra barriers for people with DACA, even when they have all needed documents.
Can a DACA recipient get a REAL ID if their DACA is expired?
No. If your DACA status expires and you do not have any other legal immigration status, you can no longer get a REAL ID-compliant card. States must see that your lawful status is current when issuing the card.
Why are there differences between states?
The REAL ID Act sets general rules, but it gives states the ability to set some standards on their own. Some states make it easier or harder for DACA recipients. If you are not sure about your state’s rules, contact your local DMV or check their website. The Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID page also has helpful information.
Expiration and Renewal
How long is a DACA recipient’s REAL ID valid?
For DACA recipients, the REAL ID’s expiration date usually matches the expiration date on their Employment Authorization Document. If your EAD is valid for two years, then your REAL ID will also be valid for two years.
Is a DACA-recipient’s REAL ID marked as “temporary?”
Yes. REAL IDs given to people on DACA or other deferred action will usually say that they are “limited term” or “temporary.” This marking means the card is only valid as long as your lawful status is current.
How does a DACA recipient renew their REAL ID?
When it is time to renew, you must visit a DMV field office in person. Bring your new EAD, updated proof of lawful presence, Social Security Number, and address documents. The DMV checks these documents to make sure your status is still current before giving you a renewal.
Federal Purposes and Travel
Why is REAL ID compliance important for DACA recipients?
Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant card or another approved identification to:
- Board federally regulated commercial airplanes within the United States 🇺🇸
- Enter certain federal buildings
- Access nuclear power plants
If you do not have a REAL ID by this date, you can use another acceptable form of identification, such as a valid foreign passport from your country. However, not having a REAL ID can make domestic travel and federal building entry harder.
What happens if a DACA recipient’s status changes?
If you adjust your status (for example, become a lawful permanent resident or receive another type of visa), you should apply for a new REAL ID reflecting this new status. This new ID will no longer be marked as “limited term.”
What other forms of ID can DACA recipients use for federal purposes?
Besides a REAL ID, you can use:
- A valid, unexpired foreign passport
- A U.S. Permanent Resident Card (if your status changes)
- Certain other federally accepted government IDs
Check your airline or the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website before you travel within the United States 🇺🇸 to make sure your ID will be accepted.
Important Considerations
What if a DACA renewal is delayed?
Sometimes there can be a gap between your current EAD expiring and a new one arriving. During this gap, you will not be able to renew your REAL ID. You must wait until your new EAD is approved before visiting the DMV for renewal.
Does a REAL ID guarantee protection for DACA recipients?
No. Having a REAL ID shows you have current lawful status, but it does not protect you from changes in immigration policy. DACA is a form of deferred action, not permanent legal status.
What are common mistakes DACA recipients make when applying for REAL ID?
Some common mistakes include:
- Not checking if their DACA or EAD is about to expire before applying
- Failing to bring all needed documents, such as proof of address
- Assuming that approval in one state is the same as another – state rules can differ
Can DACA recipients drive with a REAL ID license?
Yes. If you get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, you can legally drive as long as your DACA and EAD are valid and your license is current.
Addressing Common Myths
Does having a REAL ID make you a citizen?
No. Having a REAL ID proves you have current lawful status, but it does not change your immigration status or make you a U.S. citizen.
Is DACA the same as permanent residency?
No. DACA only gives deferred action and permission to work. It is not a green card or path to permanent residency, though some people may become eligible to apply for other immigration benefits over time.
Are all EAD holders eligible for REAL ID?
Not always. Only EAD holders with a type of status that the REAL ID Act recognizes, like DACA, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), or certain visas, may be eligible. The type of EAD and your status matter.
Where to Get More Help
If you have questions that are not answered here or if you want to check your own state’s requirements for REAL ID and DACA recipients, see the REAL ID for Non-U.S. Citizens page from the California DMV or the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID FAQ. For DACA application basics, visit the USCIS DACA page.
Summary of Key Points
- Most people with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals can get REAL ID cards or driver’s licenses in most states if their status, EAD, and SSN are all valid.
- State rules vary. Some states make it harder, so always check your local DMV rules.
- REAL IDs for DACA recipients are marked limited-term and expire with the EAD. You must renew in person.
- After May 7, 2025, having a REAL ID makes it easier to fly within the United States 🇺🇸 and enter some federal buildings.
- REAL ID does not change your DACA status. Keep documents up to date and plan for renewals well in advance.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, while the REAL ID Act has given many people with DACA an option for secure identification, ongoing state-level changes may affect what documents are accepted. It’s always important to review official resources and contact your state DMV to stay updated.
For official sources and more details, use government websites like the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page. This will ensure you have the latest and most accurate information about REAL ID, DACA, and your rights as an immigrant in the United States 🇺🇸.
Learn Today
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) → A U.S. immigration policy granting certain undocumented individuals temporary protection from deportation and work authorization.
REAL ID → A federally standardized identification card required for federal purposes like domestic flights and accessing federal buildings after May 7, 2025.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) → A card proving the holder’s legal right to work in the U.S., often required for REAL ID eligibility.
Lawful Status → A recognized immigration status that allows someone to reside legally in the U.S. under federal law.
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) → State agency responsible for issuing driver’s licenses and identification cards, including REAL ID.
This Article in a Nutshell
DACA recipients with a current EAD and Social Security Number may qualify for REAL ID in most U.S. states. These REAL IDs are temporary and expire alongside their EADs. State rules differ, so always check local DMV requirements. From May 7, 2025, REAL ID is essential for federal travel and building access.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• REAL ID not valid for Canada or Mexico land and sea border crossings
• REAL ID: What Counts as Proof of Identity for Your Application
• Permanent Resident Card remains valid for US flights after REAL ID rule
• U.S. Passport or Passport Card valid for domestic flights after REAL ID deadline
• REAL ID appointment rules differ by state at DMV and RMV offices
