How to Get a REAL ID

Quiz time: Do you have a REAL ID?

If you thought, “Yes …?” or “What’s a REAL ID?” you should know that, beginning on May 7, 2025, all Americans will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification — a REAL ID, a valid U.S. passport or a military ID — to fly domestically.

What’s a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is an updated state-issued driver’s license.

Most REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses have a star in the upper-right corner to indicate compliance. (See the image above.)

Why do I need a REAL ID?

Do you have plans to fly domestically, enter a military base or enter a federal facility that requires ID at the door?

If you answered YES and you don’t have a federally acceptable form of identification such as a valid U.S. passport or military ID (or don’t feel like carrying those around), then you need a REAL ID by May 7, 2025.

If you don’t get a REAL ID, then you will have to bring your valid U.S. passport or military ID with you whenever you fly domestically, enter a military base or enter a federal facility that requires ID at the door.

  — Photo courtesy Philadelphia International Airport

How do I get a REAL ID?

If you’re a Pennsylvania resident, start by identifying a PennDOT REAL ID Center or PennDOT Driver License Center to visit.

(Not a PA resident? Head to the Department of Homeland Security’s official REAL ID website to find appropriate facilities in your state to help you secure your REAL ID.)

Then, find and bring original versions or certified copies of certain documents to the REAL ID Center or Driver License Center to verify your identity so that you can get a REAL ID.

PennDOT requires:

1. Proof of identity: Original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the state office of vital records with a raised/embossed seal — issued by an authorized government agency — or valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or passport card
2. Proof of Social Security number (proof must include your current legal name and the full nine digits of the Social Security Number): Your original Social Security card, W-2 form, an SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form or a pay stub
3. Two proofs of current, physical PA address (if applicable): Examples include a current and unexpired PA license or ID, a PA vehicle registration, an auto insurance card or a utility bill with the same name and address
4. Proof of all legal name changes: A certified marriage certificate, a court order or an adoption decree issued by your county’s family court.

PennDOT may already have your REAL ID documentation on file, allowing you to order your REAL ID online. Apply for REAL ID pre-verification online to find out if you are eligible.

If you are a lawfully present non-U.S. citizen, note that acceptable documents are different. Check out these REAL ID guidelines for non-U.S. citizens.

For more information about REAL ID and travel, check out the Philadelphia International Airport and the Department of Homeland Security. For more information about securing a REAL ID in Pennsylvania, the best source is PennDOT Driver & Vehicle Services.