A find driver license is a state ID that meets federal security standards and works for domestic air travel and federal building access
A find driver license (sometimes called a REAL ID driver license) is a standard state driver license that has been upgraded to meet security requirements set by the federal government. The main difference you'll notice is a small star or marking on the card itself. If you want to board a domestic airplane or enter a federal building, you'll need either this license or a passport.
Most states began issuing these licenses years ago, and many have now made them the default. Some states still offer a choice between a standard license and a find one. The process to get one is similar to renewing a regular license, but you'll need to bring additional documents to prove your identity and residency.
Key Takeaways
- A find driver license displays a star or marking and meets federal standards for domestic air travel and federal building entry.
- You will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person with original or certified documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and current address.
- The documents required vary by state, but typically include a birth certificate, passport, or state ID plus a recent utility bill or lease.
- Processing time ranges from a few days to several weeks depending on your state and whether your documents need verification.
- If you already have a standard driver license, you can renew it as a find license at your next renewal, or request an upgrade before then.
What documents you need to bring
Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles will ask you to show original documents or certified copies. You cannot use photocopies or digital images for most of these. Bring one document that proves your identity (such as a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate) and one that proves your current address (such as a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address).
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. If you don't have a Social Security card, bring a document that shows your number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. Some states ask for a second form of ID as well. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because the exact list varies.
If any of your documents are not in English, bring an official English translation along with the original. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.
how the process works at your DMV
Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office in person. You cannot complete this process by mail or online, because the DMV staff must verify your documents and take your photograph. Call ahead or check the DMV website to see if your location requires an appointment, as many now do.
Bring all your documents, your current driver license if you have one, and a completed process form (usually available on the DMV website or at the office). The staff will review your documents, take a new photo, and collect a fee. The fee varies by state but typically ranges from $20 to $50.
Ask the DMV staff how long processing will take in your state. Some states issue the license the same day; others mail it within one to three weeks. If your documents need additional verification, it may take longer.
When you need a find license for travel
Starting in 2025, a find driver license (or passport, passport card, or military ID) is required to board a domestic airplane in the United States. If you have a standard driver license without the security marking, you will not be able to use it at airport security. You will need to bring a passport instead, or you can upgrade to a find license before your trip.
A find license is also required to enter federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants. If you work in one of these locations or visit them regularly, upgrading is practical. For occasional visits, a passport works just as well.
If you are planning air travel and your current license is a standard one, check your state's DMV website now to see how long processing takes. If it will take longer than your trip date, bring a passport to the airport instead.
Renewing versus upgrading your current license
If your driver license is expiring soon, you can renew it as a find license at the same time. The process is the same: bring your documents, pay the fee, and the DMV will issue a find license. You do not pay extra for the security upgrade when you renew.
If your license is not expiring for several years but you need a find license now, you can request an upgrade before your renewal date. This is called an interim renewal or early renewal depending on your state. You will pay a fee (usually the same as a renewal fee) and follow the same process. Your old license will be canceled, and you'll receive the new find license.
Some states allow you to renew online or by mail if you are renewing a standard license, but you must go in person to upgrade to a find license for the first time.
If you were born outside the United States
If you were born outside the U.S., you will need to bring proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency. This might be a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or green card. You will also need a birth certificate from your country of birth, or a consular report of birth abroad if you were born to U.S. citizen parents overseas.
Processing may take longer if your documents need to be verified with another country or agency. Some states verify documents electronically; others request them by mail. Ask the DMV staff for an estimate when you explore.
If you are not a U.S. citizen but have a valid visa or work permit, you may still be able to get a standard driver license in your state, but not a find one. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what is available to you.
Replacing a lost or damaged find license
If your find license is lost, stolen, or damaged, visit the DMV to request a replacement. You will need to bring your Social Security number and proof of your current address. You do not need to bring all the original documents again, because the DMV has your information on file.
The replacement fee is usually lower than the original fee (often $10 to $25). Processing time is typically faster for replacements, sometimes just a few days. If you need the license urgently, ask whether your state offers expedited processing or same-day replacement at certain locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a find license by mail?
No. You must visit a DMV office in person so staff can verify your documents and take your photograph. Some states allow you to renew a standard license by mail, but upgrading to a find license always requires an in-person visit.
What if I don't have a birth certificate?
You can use other documents that prove your identity and date of birth, such as a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or military discharge papers. Contact your state's DMV to ask which alternatives they accept before you visit.
How much does a find license cost?
The fee varies by state, typically between $20 and $50. If you are renewing an expiring license, the cost is usually the same as renewing a standard license. Upgrading before your renewal date may cost the same or slightly less.
Will my find license work for international travel?
No. A find driver license is only for domestic air travel and federal building access. For international travel, you need a passport or passport card.
How long does it take to get a find license?
Processing time varies by state. Some issue the license the same day; others mail it within one to three weeks. If your documents need verification, it may take longer. Call your DMV or check their website for your state's typical timeframe.