REAL ID Checklist 2025: Documents, Costs, and How to Get One
Last updated · REAL ID · Methodology
The REAL ID Act sets federal minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses and ID cards. After May 7, 2025, the TSA will not accept a non-compliant state ID at airport security. This checklist tells you exactly what to bring, what it costs in each state, and how to avoid a wasted DMV trip.
The 4 documents you must bring
- Proof of identity — original or certified US birth certificate, valid US passport, or permanent resident card. Photocopies are rejected.
- Proof of Social Security number — SSN card, W-2, SSA-1099, or pay stub showing your full SSN.
- Two proofs of state residency — utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement (within 60-90 days).
- Proof of legal name change if applicable — marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree linking the name on your birth certificate to your current name.
REAL ID fees by state (top 10)
Most states charge their standard renewal fee plus a $5-$10 REAL ID surcharge. Cheapest:
- Mississippi — around $24
- Arizona — around $25
- Iowa — around $32
- Oklahoma — around $39
- California — around $45
- Texas — around $33
- Florida — around $48
- New York — around $30
- Illinois — around $30
- Pennsylvania — around $30 plus $30 issuance
See the full national REAL ID fee table for every state.
Step-by-step process
- Verify your existing license is current (not expired more than 60 days)
- Gather all four document categories above (originals, not copies)
- Book an appointment at your state DMV — most states require one for REAL ID
- Visit the office and present documents for verification (5-15 minutes)
- Pay the fee and have your photo retaken
- Receive a temporary printout; the new card mails in 7-21 days
Who does NOT need a REAL ID
- US passport or passport card holders (these already meet TSA standards)
- Children under 18 flying with an adult
- People who do not fly domestically
- Holders of Enhanced Driver Licenses from MI, MN, NY, VT, or WA
- Active military with a DoD ID
- Permanent residents with a green card
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the REAL ID deadline?+
May 7, 2025 — after this date, TSA will not accept a non-compliant state ID at airport security.
How do I know if my license is REAL ID?+
Look for a star (often inside a gold or black circle) in the upper-right corner of the card. No star means non-compliant.
Can I get REAL ID online?+
No — every state requires a first-time REAL ID applicant to visit a DMV office in person to verify original documents.
What happens if I show up without REAL ID after May 2025?+
TSA will redirect you to additional screening; in many cases you will be denied boarding. Carry a US passport as backup if possible.
Is REAL ID the same as Enhanced Driver License?+
No. EDLs (issued by 5 states) work for REAL ID purposes AND for land/sea border crossings to Canada and Mexico. Standard REAL IDs work only for domestic flights.
The DMVPeek editorial team aggregates and verifies fee schedules, requirements, and office data from all 51 US state motor vehicle departments. Every statistic on this site is cross-referenced against the official agency website before publication, with quarterly re-verification cycles.
Read our full methodology or contact us with corrections.