What is Needed to Obtain a REAL ID?

If you want a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), in order to meet federal security standards and board domestic commercial flights or enter secure federal facilities (like courthouses) securely. In person. With appropriate documents in hand.

Congress adopted the REAL ID Act in 2005, setting minimum standards for state issued drivers’ licenses, permits and ID cards issued in compliance with these standards. Federal agencies such as Transportation Security Administration are forbidden from accepting IDs from states not adhering to these standards for official purposes.

When applying for a REAL ID, the following documents must be presented: (one proof of identity: for example a certified copy of your birth certificate with raised/embossed seal, unrestricted passport or an unexpired U.S. military ID with valid signature);

If your name differs on an identity document you present, court or government issued proof(s) will need to be presented as evidence for why that change has taken place (e.g. marriage license, divorce decree or court order). Please refer to the DMV REAL ID Document Checklist for an inclusive list of acceptable documents. Additionally, as part of their application process the DMV will collect your Social Security number and verify it against Social Security Administration records as part of this application process.