Most states require an appointment, but a few still accept walk-ins

Whether you need an appointment depends on your state. Most states now require you to book a time slot before you go to the DMV or your state's ID office to get a Real ID. A handful of states still take walk-ins, but even those may have long waits. The fastest way to find out what your state requires is to visit your state's DMV website directly — each state sets its own rules, and the rules change.

If your state requires an appointment, you usually book it online through the DMV website. Some states let you book by phone instead. The wait time between booking and your appointment slot varies widely — some states have openings within days, while others have waits of several weeks, especially in busy urban areas.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states require an appointment to get a Real ID, which you typically book through your state's DMV website.
  • A few states still accept walk-ins, but you should check your state's DMV site to confirm before you go.
  • Appointment availability varies by location and season — urban areas and summer months often have longer waits.
  • If your state's online booking is full, calling the DMV directly may reveal cancellations or alternative locations with sooner openings.

How to book an appointment in states that require one

Start by going to your state's DMV website. Look for a link labeled "Schedule an Appointment," "Book an Appointment," or "Real ID Appointments." You will usually enter your zip code or county to see which offices near you have openings.

Most online systems let you pick a date and time from available slots. Some states show you availability weeks in advance; others show only the next week or two. After you select your slot, you will receive a confirmation number and often a reminder email or text message. Write down or save your confirmation number — you will need it when you arrive.

If the online system shows no availability, try calling your local DMV office directly. Staff can sometimes see cancellations that have not yet appeared online, or they can tell you which nearby locations have sooner openings. Phone numbers are usually on the DMV website under "Contact Us."

States that still accept walk-ins

A small number of states do not require appointments for Real ID. These include South Dakota, Montana, and a few others, though rules change and some states have moved to appointment-only systems in recent years. Even in walk-in states, you may face a wait of one to three hours, especially during peak times like lunch hours or late afternoons.

If you live in a walk-in state, you can still save time by going early in the morning or on a weekday rather than a weekend. Call ahead to ask about current wait times — many DMV offices post this information on their websites or answer phones during business hours.

What to bring when you arrive for your appointment

Bring your confirmation number if you booked an appointment. You will also need the documents that prove your identity, citizenship, and address — the exact list varies by state, but typically includes your birth certificate, passport or passport card, proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of your current address (such as a utility bill and a lease).

Bring the original documents, not copies. The DMV staff will examine them and may make copies for your file. If you are unsure which documents your state accepts, check the DMV website or call before you go — showing up with the wrong documents wastes your appointment slot.

What happens if you miss your appointment

If you miss your appointment without canceling, most states will not let you book another one for a set period — often 30 days. You may also lose any fee you paid to book the slot. If you know you cannot make it, cancel through the online system or call the DMV as soon as you can. This frees up the slot for someone else and usually lets you rebook sooner.

If you are running late, call the DMV office directly. Some offices will hold your slot for 15 to 30 minutes; others will not. It is better to call and ask than to arrive late and find your appointment gone.

Appointment wait times vary by location and season

Urban DMV offices often have longer waits than rural ones because more people live nearby. Summer months, the weeks before holidays, and the period right after a new Real ID important date typically see heavier demand. If your state's main office is booked out for weeks, check whether satellite offices or offices in nearby counties have sooner openings.

Some states let you travel to a different county or region to get an earlier appointment. This can be worth it if you are in a hurry and the nearest office is booked solid. Check the DMV website to see all available locations and their current wait times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an appointment by phone instead of online?

Some states allow phone bookings, but most prefer online scheduling because it is faster and reduces phone volume. Check your state's DMV website to see if phone booking is an option. If the website does not say, call the main DMV number and ask.

What if I cannot get an appointment before I need to travel?

Real ID is required for domestic flights and federal buildings starting in May 2025, but you can use a passport or passport card instead. If you cannot get a Real ID appointment in time, a passport is a valid alternative for travel. You can also ask the DMV about expedited or emergency appointments if your travel is urgent.

Do I need to bring my confirmation number to my appointment?

Yes, bring your confirmation number or the confirmation email. The DMV staff will use it to pull up your appointment record. If you lost it, call the DMV before you go and they can look it up using your name and date of birth.

Can someone else go to my appointment for me?

No. You must be present in person to get a Real ID because the DMV needs to verify your identity and take your photo and fingerprints. No one can do this on your behalf.