What happens when you upgrade to a Real ID
A Real ID driver license looks like a regular license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. When you upgrade, you keep the same license number and most of the same information — the main difference is that your state has verified your identity documents more thoroughly than it does for a standard license.
The upgrade process involves submitting original documents (or certified copies) to your state's DMV or equivalent agency. You will need to prove your identity, Social Security number, and current address. The agency checks these documents against federal databases before issuing the Real ID license. You cannot do this online; you must visit in person.
Once you have a Real ID license, you can use it to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, and access military bases without needing a passport. If you do not upgrade, you will still need a passport or other federal ID for those purposes after the federal important date, though that important date has been extended multiple times and currently stands at May 7, 2025.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit your state DMV in person with original documents; the upgrade cannot be done online or by mail in most states.
- Required documents typically include a birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of address, and a valid ID — the exact list varies by state.
- The fee ranges from $0 to $30 depending on your state and whether you renew your license at the same time.
- Processing takes two to eight weeks in most states, though some offer expedited options for an additional fee.
- You do not need a Real ID to drive; you need it only for federal purposes like flying domestically or entering federal buildings.
Gather your documents before you go to the DMV
Every state requires the same core documents, but the acceptable forms vary slightly. You will need proof of identity (usually a current passport, passport card, or military ID), proof of a Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
You will also need a birth certificate. Most states accept a certified copy from your state's vital records office, though some accept hospital-issued birth certificates. If your birth certificate does not match your current legal name, bring a document showing the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Check your state's DMV website for the exact list before you go. Some states accept a broader range of documents than others, and bringing the wrong form of proof means a wasted trip. Many state DMV websites have a checklist you can print or a tool that walks you through what you need based on your situation.
Schedule an appointment or find walk-in hours
Most states now require you to book an appointment online through their DMV website. A few still allow walk-ins, but wait times at walk-in locations can stretch to several hours. Scheduling ahead is faster and more reliable.
When you book, you will typically see available dates and times for your nearest DMV office. Some offices have longer wait lists than others, so if your local office is booked out weeks ahead, check whether a nearby office in an adjacent county has earlier availability. You can usually transfer your appointment or just show up at the new location if you have an appointment there.
If your state does not offer online scheduling, call the DMV directly or visit in person to book. Have your driver license number and date of birth ready when you call.
What to expect during your visit
Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. Bring your current driver license. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The DMV staff will review your documents, verify they match the information in their system, and take a new photo if your current license photo is too old (usually older than five years).
You will sign a form confirming your identity and address. The staff will scan or photograph your documents. You will pay the fee, which ranges from $0 in some states to $30 in others. If your license is expiring soon, you may be offered the option to renew it at the same time for a combined fee.
The DMV will tell you when to expect your new license. Most states mail it within two to eight weeks. Some offer expedited processing for $10 to $25 extra, which can cut that time to one to two weeks. Ask about expedited options if you need the license quickly.
Real ID upgrade versus license renewal
You can upgrade to a Real ID at any time, even if your current license is not expiring soon. However, many people combine the upgrade with a renewal to avoid two separate trips and fees. If you do them together, you typically pay one combined fee rather than two separate ones.
If you upgrade now and your license expires in two years, you will get a Real ID license that is valid for the full term. When that license expires, your renewal will automatically be a Real ID renewal — you do not have to go through the verification process again.
If you wait until your license is expiring to upgrade, you will do both at once. The downside is that you will not have the Real ID until your new license arrives, which could take several weeks. If you need it before then, upgrade now rather than waiting.
What to do if your documents are missing or damaged
If you do not have your original birth certificate, contact your state's vital records office (usually part of the health department) and request a certified copy. This typically costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail. Some states offer rush processing for an additional fee. You can usually order online or by phone.
If you have lost your Social Security card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration. You can explore online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. A replacement card usually arrives within two weeks.
If your current address does not match your driver license, bring a utility bill or lease in your name at your current address. The DMV will update your address during the Real ID process. You do not need to renew your license to change your address — most states allow address changes at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Real ID if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. A Social Security number is required by federal law for Real ID. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a Real ID license. You can still get a standard driver license and use a passport for federal purposes.
What if I changed my name but do not have a marriage certificate?
Bring whatever document shows your name change — a court order, divorce decree, or adoption papers. If you legally changed your name through the court, request a certified copy of the name change order from the court clerk. The DMV will accept that in place of a marriage certificate.
Do I need a Real ID if I only drive locally?
You do not need a Real ID to drive anywhere. You need it only if you plan to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or access a military base. If you only drive locally and do not fly, a standard license is sufficient.
Can I renew my Real ID online or by mail?
Most states allow online or mail renewal for Real ID licenses if your documents have not changed and your current license is not expired. Check your state DMV website for renewal options. You will not need to visit in person again unless your documents have changed or your state requires it.
What if I moved to a new state after getting a Real ID?
You will need to get a new Real ID license from your new state. You cannot transfer a Real ID license between states. The process is the same: gather your documents, schedule an appointment, and visit the DMV in your new state. Your old license remains valid for driving until it expires, but you will need the new state's Real ID for federal purposes.