travel with state id

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Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint

Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.

• Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.  
• State-Issued Drivers License or State-Issued ID
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a  federally recognized , Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

In coordination with its DHS counterparts, TSA has identified acceptable alternate identification for use in special circumstances at the checkpoint.

A weapon permit is not an acceptable form of identification. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification.

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

Learn more about flying with a REAL ID .

TSA currently accepts expired ID up to a year after expiration, for the above listed forms of identification. DHS has extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline to May 7, 2025. Learn more about REAL ID on  TSA’s REAL ID  webpage.

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.

Forgot Your ID?

In the event you arrive at the airport without valid identification, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint. You will be subject to additional screening, to include a patdown and screening of carry-on property.

You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if your identity cannot be confirmed, you choose to not provide proper identification or you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process.

TSA recommends that you arrive at least two hours in advance of your flight time.

Names With Suffixes

TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation.

If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.

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How to get a REAL ID and use it for travel

The REAL ID Act is a law that sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards (IDs).

Why upgrade your license to a REAL ID?

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you have not upgraded your driver’s license or state-issued ID to be REAL ID-compliant, you will not be able to use it to:

• Board federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Access federal government facilities or military installations
• Enter nuclear power plants

Visit the REAL ID website for more details and frequently asked questions.

Check to see if your license or state ID is already REAL ID-compliant

If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, it is already REAL-ID-compliant. There is nothing more you need to do.

How to get a REAL ID

When you apply for or renew your driver’s license or state identification card, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see what documentation you will need. Your new card will have the REAL ID star marking at the top right.

Do you need a REAL ID to fly?

If you do not upgrade your license or state ID, you can use a passport or one of these other acceptable forms of identification to fly . 

Can you still get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID?

You will still be able to get a driver's license or state ID card that is not REAL ID-compliant. But you will not be able to use it for air travel or to get into federal facilities or military installations. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see how to get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID.

LAST UPDATED: May 23, 2024

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The REAL ID Act: What It Means, State by State Requirements, and Updates [2024]

Christy Rodriguez

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Table of Contents

What is the real id act, what does a real id look like, what does real id mean for me, what the real id act is not, who needs a real id, who can get a real id, real id by state, steps to take to get a compliant real id, is real id mandatory to fly, how much does a real id cost, what about minors under 18, final thoughts.

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You may have noticed Transportation Security Administration signs posted at airport security checkpoints warning travelers about upcoming ID requirement changes. So what exactly are these changes, and what do you need to do to be ready?

We’ll break down exactly how REAL ID works — including what the REAL ID Act means for you and how you travel.

Formulated in the wake of September 11 and passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act was passed to “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.”

The act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and it prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.

It was aimed at thwarting airline terrorism by increasing requirements to obtain documents that grant access to domestic planes.

State agencies that issue licenses and identification cards, like the Department of Motor Vehicles, require more paperwork regarding proof of residency and Social Security numbers to obtain standard licenses under the new act.

The cards also use new technology, making them much more difficult to forge.

Due to various roadblocks and the COVID-19 pandemic, it will have taken the federal government nearly 20 years to implement the act fully — a gradual process that has been met by some confusion as each state has a different status. The original date of compliance was October 1, 2020. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the deadline was first delayed to October 1, 2021, then to May 3, 2023, and now to May 7, 2025. All states must comply by May 7, 2025 .

We know a lot of travelers are concerned that they will lose the ability to fly, drive, or vote as a result of the REAL ID Act, but this isn’t the case. You can continue to use your regular license or identification to drive and vote without obtaining a REAL ID.

The change will only impact domestic travel in the U.S. and you will either need to provide an alternate form of TSA-approved ID or obtain a REAL ID.

Bottom Line: To fly internationally, you will always need your passport.

In most states, there is a gold or black star on the front of the REAL ID license that signifies compliance. If you see one of these stars, then you’re good to go.

There are 5 states — Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington — that issue enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs). These are a form of REAL ID. These EDLs allow land and sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont offer the EDL as an option. Washington only issues EDLs.

Hot Tip:  Enhanced IDs aren’t a substitute for passports for air travel, only land or sea travel.

An easy way to know your card is not compliant is if it says “Not for Federal Identification,” “Federal Limits Apply,” or “Not for Real ID Act Purposes.”

Airports are considered federal facilities and this act affects your ability to enter them and board your flight.

Starting May 7, 2025, the REAL ID Act takes full effect. From this date, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or ID or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport or passport card to access federal facilities — including boarding commercial aircraft.

Most states and territories have already begun issuing new licenses. You will have until May 7, 2025, to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license. Just check your license to be sure.

If your ID is REAL ID-compliant, there will be a star in the top right corner. Many drivers may not realize they already have a compliant ID since some states have issued them for many years.

Bottom Line: If you are not in compliance with the REAL ID Act, you will need to show an alternative form of acceptable identification for domestic air travel to board your flight starting on May 7, 2025.

A REAL ID is NOT a substitute for a passport for international travel . This means you can’t use a REAL ID to enter Canada or Mexico by land or any international travel destination. The only exception to this is if you have an enhanced driver’s license — more on this below!

There are several other requirements that REAL ID doesn’t affect.

REAL ID requirements don’t apply to:

• Voting or registering to vote
• Applying for or receiving federal benefits
• Being licensed by a state to drive or rent a car
• Entering federal facilities that do not require identification (including a defendant’s access to court proceedings, national parks, and Social Security offices)
• Accessing health- or life-preserving services (including hospitals and health clinics)
• Participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigation
• The ability to purchase alcohol, cash checks, or gamble

You can also continue to use your standard driver’s license or ID card for other U.S. travel including driving in and across state lines or riding a train.

In most instances, obtaining a REAL ID isn’t required, but there are many benefits to obtaining a REAL ID. Here is a breakdown of some common reasons to consider getting a REAL ID and a few reasons why you might not need one.

Common Reasons To Obtain a REAL ID

• You want to fly with only your state-issued ID
• You don’t have a passport or another TSA-approved ID (listed below)
• You need to visit a secure federal facility, such as a military base, and don’t have a military ID

Reasons You May Not Need a REAL ID

• You are under 18 years old
• You only need your ID for purposes of identification (ie. to vote, serve on a jury, or drive)
• You don’t mind bringing another TSA-approved ID (like a passport) along when you fly starting on May 7, 2025

To qualify for a REAL ID-compliant ID or license, you must fall under one of the following categories:

• U.S. citizen or national
• U.S. lawful permanent resident or lawful temporary resident (including green card holders)
• Have conditional permanent resident status in the U.S. (including individuals with valid work permits, like H1B visas)
• Have an approved asylum application or entered under refugee status
• Have a valid, unexpired nonimmigrant visa
• Have a pending application for asylum
• Have a pending or approved temporary protected status
• Have an approved deferred action status (including DACA)
• Have a pending application for adjustment of status to that of lawful permanent or conditional resident

Specifically, for undocumented immigrants, the DHS website notes that driver’s licenses and identification cards can still be issued by the state, but not REAL IDs: “Some states currently issue noncompliant cards to undocumented individuals. Noncompliant cards must clearly state on their face that they are not acceptable for REAL ID purposes and must use a unique design or color to differentiate them from compliant cards.”

Hot Tip: Still not sure? Check DHS’s interactive tool to check if you are “REAL ID Ready”.

Since licenses are issued at the state level, each process is slightly different. But the good news is that all states are in compliance with the REAL ID Act. This just means that each state and territory is now able to provide REAL IDs.

In a move aimed to help more people receive their REAL IDs before the May 7, 2025, deadline, the DHS passed the REAL ID Modernization Act that allows you to submit your identification documents electronically . This includes information such as a birth certificate and passport.

Applicants will still need to bring the required documents in person so they can be compared to the electronic submissions. This means that to get a REAL ID-compliant license, you must still physically go to a DMV office.

Bottom Line: States will not send you a REAL ID-compliant license automatically if you renew your license online. While most states are issuing compliant IDs, individuals may still choose not to upgrade their licenses.

What if My State Is REAL ID-Compliant?

You will be able to use your state-issued ID at airports through May 7, 2025. After May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (or another TSA-approved ID) to fly — both domestically and internationally.

Which States Require REAL ID To Fly?

All states issue REAL ID-compliant IDs, but none require a REAL ID. You can still fly as long as you have a TSA-approved form of ID. When comparing a REAL ID to a state ID, they can be the same form of identification.

If you’ve decided you’d like to get a REAL ID, you’ll definitely want to know where to go to get a REAL ID, what documents to bring, and how much the REAL ID costs.

Step 1: Make an appointment to visit a REAL ID at a DMV field office near you. Some offices are offering special hours or days for those trying to get a REAL ID before May 7, 2025. You can also get a REAL ID without an appointment, but this isn’t recommended as wait times at your local office can be incredibly long.

Here are the links to all of the local offices to help you get started with this process.

Step 2: On the day of your appointment, ensure you bring all the necessary documents (even if you have submitted documents online beforehand).

What Real ID Documents Do I Need?

• Proof of identity, such as a certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, employment authorization document, permanent resident card, or foreign passport with an approved form I-94
• Proof of your Social Security number, such as an SSN card, W-2, or paystub with full SSN
• At least 2 proof of residency documents, such as a rental or lease agreement, mortgage bill, utility bill or employment, medical, or school document
• If applicable, an original or certified copy of a name change document, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree, may be required

If you have any issues or concerns with obtaining any of the documents or seeing if an item will be accepted, we suggest checking directly with your local DMV.

Step 3: Pay the fee for the license. This will vary by state but is generally less than $60. Check our graphic under “How Much Does a REAL ID Cost?” below for specific costs.

Common Problems With Obtaining a REAL ID

There are a lot of questions about what is and isn’t an appropriate document to bring along with you to obtain a REAL ID. Issues like not having a mailing address, having a name change, or having a temporary or expired license are common problems. Also, getting a REAL ID without key documents such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or passport can be a challenge.

If you’re unsure, we always recommend reaching out to your state’s license-issuing office directly before you head to your appointment!

Some states, like California, offer a l ist of documents that are accepted for each category. This is a good place to start when gathering your documents. Look for notes about when copies or originals are necessary and read recommendations for alternatives if you don’t have the recommended residency documents or if you use a P.O. Box.

Can I Transfer My REAL ID Between States?

No, you can’t transfer your REAL ID between states. Unfortunately, federal requirements don’t allow for the transfer of a REAL ID license between states. Each state is required to view and image all documentation upon original issuance in that state.

This means that when you move, you will need to go in person to present the same documentation such as a U.S. birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, and 2 proofs of residence address, as well as meet all of your new state’s issuance requirements.

On a positive note, REAL ID licenses from other states can typically be used like any other out-of-state driver’s license to waive behind-the-wheel driving tests.

As of May 2022, an estimated 137 million Americans held REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses, U.S. passports, passport cards, military IDs, and Global Entry cards, all of which qualify as REAL ID-compliant identification. But, according to the most recent reports from the government , that is only 49% of Americans!

This means that you don’t have to upgrade your license to board your flight, but you will have to use an alternative (TSA-approved) form of ID. TSA currently accepts several other forms of identity documents:

As you can see, the most common alternatives to a REAL ID is a U.S. passport or a U.S. passport card .

Other less common items are DHS Trusted Traveler cards ( Global Entry , NEXUS , SENTRI , FAST), permanent resident cards, Department of Defense IDs, enhanced driver’s licenses, and federally recognized tribal-issued photo IDs.

For more information on acceptable forms of identification for boarding aircraft, please see  TSA’s website . However, it should be noted that if on or after May 7, 2025, you cannot provide an acceptable form of identification, you will not be permitted through the security checkpoint to board your flight.

REAL ID prices vary significantly throughout the country. Prices are set by the state, along with the process for getting a REAL ID. Below is a map with information on the cost and process in each state.

Potential State Revenue

We were interested in estimating just how much revenue states might be bringing in due to the new REAL IDs. For this, we used the cost from the above numbers and multiplied them by the estimated number of drivers in each state, according to information from the Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration.

This estimation is based on what we would consider the max possible revenue (if every driver in each state got a new license for the REAL ID Act). Because the new IDs are not mandatory, we understand that not everyone may get one. However, this is an approximation of revenue.

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the U.S. The companion will need acceptable identification, though.

Airlines may demand proof of the child’s age, such as a birth certificate or passport, but these requirements aren’t regulated by TSA. Contact the airline for more information.

Now is the time to make sure you know the requirements to be REAL ID-compliant.

In some states, it may take a few weeks or longer to get an appointment at your local DMV. By taking steps towards compliance now, you can avoid the last-minute rush and be ready to go long before May 7, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the real id card.

A REAL ID is a form of identification that meets increased security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Travelers will be required to provide either a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of identification to fly after May 7, 2025.

Which states have REAL ID?

Currently, all states are either in compliance with the REAL ID Act or have an extension in place. This means that they are currently able to issue REAL IDs.

While all states are issuing REAL IDs, you can still get a non-REAL ID license as well. Be sure you know what you are getting when you show up!

Do you need a REAL ID to fly?

A REAL ID is a valid form of identification you can use to fly. However, there are many other TSA-approved forms of identification that are also acceptable. You will still need your U.S. passport to travel internationally.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly domestic?

No, a REAL ID isn’t required to fly within the United States. However, starting on May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of identification to fly within the U.S.

Be sure to check out our graphic above for other documents that will be accepted at airport security if you don’t have a REAL ID.

Will REAL ID work as a passport?

If you are traveling internationally, you still need your U.S. passport, as a REAL ID does not replace your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need 1 valid form of identification — either your REAL ID or your passport, not both.

What documents are needed for a REAL ID?

States require you to go to your local DMV and present 1) proof of identity, 2) proof of your Social Security number, 3) 2 proof of residency documents, and 4) if applicable, a proof of name change document.

See our checklist above for examples of each of these items as well as more information on how to obtain a REAL ID.

Do my kids need a REAL ID?

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the U.S. So as long as you have your documents in order, kids will not need a REAL ID.

What is the purpose of REAL ID?

According to the DHS, the purpose of the REAL ID Act “is to make our identity documents more consistent and secure.” It provides a set of standards for the issuance of driver’s licenses and other identity documents.

Can I fly with my regular ID?

You can fly with your regular ID until May 7, 2025. Following that date, you will either need a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of ID.

How long do REAL IDs last?

This varies by state. However, REAL IDs have the same validity as other state-issued driver’s licenses. This is typically anywhere from 3 to 8 years depending on your state and age. Here is a comprehensive list  by state and age.

Is the REAL ID like a driver's license?

A REAL ID can be the same document as your driver’s license. But not all driver’s licenses are REAL IDs.

We know this can be complicated, but a REAL ID driver’s license has additional technology, making it harder to forge. In addition, you must provide additional verification documents (such as multiple forms of ID and residence proof) to get a REAL ID.

Can a REAL ID be used as a passport?

A REAL ID cannot be used for international travel. You must still have your passport to travel internationally.

What is REAL ID vs. enhanced ID?

An enhanced ID is a type of REAL ID for U.S. citizens who live in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington. Canadian citizens residing in British Columbia and Manitoba are eligible for EDLs.

In addition to serving as a driver’s license, enhanced IDs are a convenient way to get into Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean through a land or sea port of entry (not by air).

What is a REAL ID vs. a passport card?

A passport card can be used for entering the U.S. at land border crossings and sea ports of entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. You can also use it to fly domestically as an alternative to a REAL ID, but not for any international flights.

You still need a driver’s license to drive a motor vehicle.

What does "not for Real ID Act purposes" mean?

“Not for Real ID Act purposes” means that the ID can’t be used for identification for a domestic flight (from May 7, 2025) or to enter a federal facility such as a military base.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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Real ID deadline is rapidly approaching, what to know about the new flight requirement

The really real deadline to make your state-issued identified card, or driver’s license Real ID compliant will be here before you know it. 

And you won’t be fly domestically after 2025 without it. The government has been trying to make Real IDs a thing for a while, initially passing The Real ID act in 2005 in an attempt to set “minimum security standards” for state-issued identification documents.

The law was set to take effect in 2020 but was pushed back by the Department of Homeland Security over “backlogged transactions” at MVD offices nationwide as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to USA TODAY reporting . 

The May 2025 extension was necessary, DHS says, as state driver’s licensing agencies worked to address the mountains of paperwork, which in turn impacted the MVD’s ability to make any real progress on the Real ID rollout. 

“Following the enforcement deadline, federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, will be prohibited from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet these federal standards,” DHS said in 2022. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

That means every every traveler, 18 or older, must have a compliant form of identification in order to travel.

Here’s what to know. 

When does Real ID go into effect? 

The Real ID “full enforcement date” is Wednesday, May 7, 2025, according to DHS. 

When will a Real ID be required to fly?

You or your loved ones need to have a Real ID compliant document, driver’s license or identification card, by May 7, 2025. 

If you have another form of identification that is TSA-approved, like an up to date passport or a permanent resident card then you probably don’t need a Real ID compliant document.

Here are a couple TSA-approved alternatives, if you’re on the fence about getting a Real ID.

• State issued enhanced driver’s license
•  DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
•  HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport
•  Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
•  Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

How long does it take to get a Real ID?

It will take about two weeks , or 15 business days to get your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License from your state's Motor Vehicle Department.

Enhanced driver’s licenses, which are only issued in a couple of states, including Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont, are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, DHS says. 

How do I know if I have a Real ID? 

All Real IDs will have a stamp on the right hand corner to show that the identification document meets federal standards set forth by The Real ID Act of 2005. 

The symbol stamped on your Real ID card will vary, depending on which state you obtain your new identification card from. 

What does a Real ID look like? 

Your Real ID will have most, if not all of the information that’s included on your driver’s license. 

The only difference is the seal included in the right-hand corner. 

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Everything to Know About the REAL ID — Including How to Get One and When to Use It

Here's when you'll actually need to get a REAL ID.

Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images

You've probably seen the signage for REAL IDs all over the airport, but do you know what it actually is? As recommended by the 9/11 Commission, Congress passed the REAL ID Act to set security standards for forms of identification like driver's licenses back in 2005. The act ultimately requires anyone accessing certain federal facilities, boarding commercial aircraft, or entering nuclear power plants to use an ID that meets these standards. But as of today, the REAL ID Act hasn't been enforced . "The deadlines have been pushed out several times, with the current date of May 7, 2025," says Dr. Sheldon Jacobson, a professor of computer science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a research background in aviation security. Here's what you need to know about REAL IDs, especially as it relates to air travel.

What is a REAL ID and do I need one?

A REAL ID is a government-issued ID that meets federal security standards. Now, most "regular" state-issued driver's licenses do not meet these standards. That's why every state (plus Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories) has developed a new driver's license that's REAL ID–compliant — it'll have a star on the upper portion of the card. When the REAL ID Act becomes enforced, you will need to use a REAL ID–compliant form of identification at airport security . If you don't have one, you won't be permitted to enter the airport.

But do you absolutely need a REAL ID–compliant driver's license to get through airport security? The answer is no. There are other compliant forms of ID for those who don't have a driver's license. "You can use a passport, or other forms of ID that have a higher level of validation. A Global Entry card would also work," says Jacobson. Check out some of the options below, and find the full list of acceptable IDs on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website .

• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, Nexus, Sentri, Fast)
• Permanent resident card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized, Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport

It's also important to note a REAL ID will only be required of travelers 18 years and older. Children do not need an ID to fly, per the TSA.

Jeffrey Greenberg/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

When do I need to get a REAL ID?

At the time of publication, the enforcement date of the Real ID Act is May 7, 2025. But Jacobson believes the deadline might be further delayed. "The airlines cannot support any measure that may prohibit a ticketed passenger from flying. Congress will find some reason to delay its implementation once again," he says.

It's a reasonable suspicion — the act was originally supposed to go into effect in 2008. But it took states and territories years to get on board, with some states protesting the cost and others concerned about privacy issues. Only in December 2022 did all jurisdictions offer REAL IDs.

In the event the REAL ID Act does go into effect on May 7, 2025, it's best to get your enhanced driver's license sooner rather than later to avoid any potential backlogs as the date nears.

How do I get a REAL ID?

The process of acquiring a REAL ID–compliant driver's license varies per state — you should consult the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to learn more. It also depends on whether you're applying for a driver's license for the first time or upgrading an existing valid driver's license to a REAL ID. Generally speaking, you'll need to visit a DMV office, bring with you certain documents for identification, and possibly pay a processing fee.

Or, if you don't want to upgrade your driver's license, you can always travel with another REAL ID–compliant form of identification, like your passport or Global Entry card.

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• About REAL ID

Are You REAL ID Ready?

On May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

Find out if you’re REAL ID ready with our interactive tool, or select your state or territory!

• Are you planning to fly domestically or visit a Federal facility after May 7, 2025?
• Does your Drivers License / ID have a star (and/or flag) or say "Enhanced"?

You're REAL ID ready! You will need this ID to board domestic flights and may need this or another acceptable form of identification to visit federal facilities.

• Do you have a passport?

A passport is an acceptable form of identification and may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities.

• Click here to see if you have one of these acceptable forms of identification that may also be used to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities (link will open in a new window). Do you have one of these?
• These alternate forms of identification may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID at the airport to board domestic flights and when visiting federal facilities.

You're not REAL ID ready! Important: if you want to board domestic flights or visit federal facilities beginning May 7, 2025 you must have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. Select your state or territory to visit your local DMV to learn more.

You might not need a REAL ID. Click on your state or territory below to visit your local DMV to learn more.

Select a state or territory:  -- Alabama Alaska American Samoa Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Guam Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Northern Mariana Islands Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Puerto Rico Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas U.S. Virgin Islands Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

• REAL ID Act of 2005

Deadline: May 7, 2025

An official website of the Washington state government

The .gov means it’s official. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Get an ID card

A step-by-step guide on how to apply for your Washington state identification card. You can choose to get a standard ID or an Enhanced ID (EID).

Before you get started

• There is no minimum age requirement to get an ID card.
• A minor can get an ID or EID card. If you're getting an EID, a parent or guardian must come with you to the licensing office.

1. Decide if you want an EID card or a standard ID card

You can't use standard ID cards to cross borders. The benefit of having an EID card is that it's an acceptable alternative to a passport for reentry into the U.S. at land and sea border crossings. A standard ID card can't be used for border crossings. Getting an EID card has different requirements. Go to Get your EID if you'd like an EID. If you want a standard ID card, keep reading.

2. Visit a driver licensing office

Make an appointment to visit a licensing office to start your application or to finish the application you started online. At the office you will:

• Provide proof of identity .
• Pay the driver licensing fee .
• Before we take your photo, we'll ask you to remove anything that covers your face or head, like a hat or sunglasses.
• We'll make exceptions for medical and religious reasons.

3. Get your ID card

You'll get your temporary ID before you leave, but it won't be acceptable as an ID because it doesn't include your photo and signature. Keep your temporary ID with you until you receive your permanent ID which should arrive in the mail within 7-10 days. If you haven't received it after 30 days, call us at 360-902-3900 (TTY: call 711 )

Need additional help? Here's how to contact us:

Related information, facial recognition.

Learn how and why the Department of Licensing uses facial recognition.

Update your driver license

Learn how to update your name, address, or gender designation on your driver license.

Update your ID card

Learn what steps you need to take to update personal information on your ID card.

Things to Do in Monino, Russia - Monino Attractions

Things to do in monino.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Central Air Force Museum

2. Church of St. George

The capital of Russia is Moscow

Facts about moscow.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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