How to get a Real ID license before the deadline

Already making your plans Big vacation for next year? If you’re flying within the United States, you should add one more task to your list: update your license to Real ID. Anyone who has a license that isn’t Real ID-certified will not be allowed to board the plane. Domestic flight It will come into effect in the US from May 7, 2025. So as long as you have Passport in handYou will need to update your license soon.

This regulatory change has been two decades in the making. The new identification standard was suggested 9/11 Commission It was passed in response to the September 11 attacks and signed into law by US President George W. Bush in 2005. Although the original deadline for this change was set for three years later, it has been delayed several times. But despite previous delays, there has been no indication from the government that this current deadline, set for 2025, will be adjusted again.

Do you want to know what the new licenses will be like and how to get yours before they expire? Here’s everything you need to know about the Real ID changes.

What does a real ID look like?

It is very similar to the previous driver license, so don’t expect any major changes in the look of the ID. Take out your wallet, and see if you have a real ID. Star in the upper right corner This is the only major change to the license.

Just like every state has different designs for driver’s licenses, the exact implementation of Real ID’s star varies slightly depending on your state. Most designs have a golden circle inlaid with a white star in the upper right corner, but California has a golden bear around the white star instead. And while many Real IDs have a golden hue, some states opted for more color Muted color palette,

How do I get a real ID?

To know what steps you need to follow, go here Department of Homeland Security webpage About updating to Real ID, and click on the state you live in. This will take you to another government website with more specific information from your state about the update process.

You’ll probably have to do this Apply for a Real ID in person Go to the local Department of Motor Vehicles office, and be prepared Bring enough documents with you with you. Though the details for your state might be slightly different, let’s take a look Missouri requirements This is an example to help you understand how many documents will be required to get a Real ID.

First, if you’re a resident of Missouri, you’ll need proof of your Social Security number, which is usually a Social Security card, but can also be a W-2 form. You’ll then need to show an identity document as well as a valid status document. For this section, a valid passport or U.S. birth certificate will meet both requirements. Next, two separate proofs of residency are needed to demonstrate that you actually live in the state, such as a utility bill, employer paycheck or car insurance. Finally, any name changes require additional documentation, such as a marriage license.

To avoid a frustrating, pointless trip to the DMV, double-check that you have all of your necessary documentation before you go to the office. Depending on the state, you may need to make an appointment in advance for a more streamlined experience. (Well, as streamlined as any trip to the DMV can be.)

What else is a REAL ID required for?

Although many Americans need to update their driver’s licenses primarily for travel purposes, there are a few cases where Real ID is also necessary: According to DHSYou’ll also need it to enter military bases and some federal buildings. A REAL ID is also required to visit nuclear power plants in the US.