YORK, Pa. — Editor's note: The attached video is from a May 2022 broadcast.
After a series of postponements and delays, the deadline to get a REAL ID is now less than a year away.
If you think that sounds familiar, you're not wrong. The deadline has been postponed and delayed multiple times since the legislation to make it mandatory was first introduced in 2005.
The law, established four years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in response to federal calls for higher security standards in the U.S., originally mandated the switch to REAL IDs by 2020. But that date has been pushed back year after year because of the logistical hurdles that naturally come with changing how hundreds of millions of people fly every year, as well as the disruption from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The last time the deadline was pushed back was at the end of 2022, when the Department of Homeland Security extended the deadline two years, from 2023 to 2025.
But now, the delays are almost over.
On May 7, 2025, Real ID identification will begin being enforced for federal purposes, including for getting through airport security, and state-level ID cards such as driver's licenses won't be accepted unless they are REAL ID-compliant.
Here's what you need to know about REAL ID.
When is the REAL ID deadline?
The deadline is May 7, 2025. On that day, the TSA at airports and security at federal buildings across the country will stop accepting non-REAL ID documents as proof of identity.
How can I tell if I already have a REAL ID?
If you've received a new driver's license or state identification card within the past few years, chances are you already have a REAL ID.
Pull your driver's license or identification card out. If it has a small gold or black star in one of the corners (or in California, a bear symbol), congratulations! You already have a REAL ID, and don't need to do anything else. You'll be able to use that ID as proof of identity when flying or entering federal buildings.
If you have an Enhanced Driver's License from Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont or Washington, those also are REAL ID-compliant. So even though most of those enhanced licenses don't have the star marking, it's still acceptable.
If you're not sure whether your current identification card is REAL ID-compliant, reach out to your state or local Department of Motor Vehicles.
How can I get a REAL ID?
Simply bring a few key pieces of documentation to any DMV and ask for a new driver's license with REAL ID. Here's what you'll need:
- One document that establishes identity, date of birth, and proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence, or other lawful U.S. status. A birth certificate will suffice for most people.
- Your Social Security number (card not required) or evidence of SSN ineligibility.
- Two documents to establish proof of residence in the state you're getting the ID for, such as a utility bill, paycheck stub, or mortgage payment
Do you have to pay to get a REAL ID?
Yes, you do.
In Pennsylvania, it will cost you $30 for the REAL ID fee. Then, if you're a regular non-commercial driver it's $30.50 for license renewal. In total, that's $60.50.
Where can I get a REAL ID?
There are specific PennDOT centers where you can get a REAL ID on the spot.
There are two locations in south-central Pennsylvania. 2090 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster East Lampeter Township in Lancaster County and another in 429 N. Enola Road, East Pennsboro Township, Cumberland County. Both are closed on Monday. You can also go to any PennDOT Driver License Center, but then you'll wait about 15 days to get the REAL ID in the mail.
Will my passport work instead of a Real ID card?
Yes! You'll be able to do anything you would do with a REAL ID with another federal identification document such as your passport.
For a full list of federally compliant documents, you can read the DHS's Real ID page here.
You'll still need your passport to travel internationally, including trips to Canada or Mexico and international cruises.
More Information:
Visit PennDOT's REAL ID page here.
Visit the Department of Homeland Security's REAL ID page here.