Book your Real ID appointment online or by phone before you visit

The Virginia DMV lets you schedule a Real ID appointment through its website or by calling 1-866-368-4968. You do not have to wait in line without an appointment, though walk-ins are accepted at some locations during certain hours. Booking ahead means you know exactly when to arrive and which documents to bring.

The online system is faster than calling. Go to dmvnow.com, select "Schedule an Appointment," choose "REAL ID Driver's License" or "REAL ID Identification Card" depending on what you need, pick your preferred DMV location and date, and confirm. You will get a confirmation number by email. If you prefer to call, have your zip code and preferred dates ready when you dial.

Appointments fill up weeks in advance in busy areas, especially near the end of the month. If your preferred location shows no openings, check smaller nearby offices or look at dates two to three weeks out. Some people find cancellations by checking the website every few days.

Key Takeaways

  • Schedule online at dmvnow.com or call 1-866-368-4968 to book a specific time slot instead of waiting in line.
  • Bring all required documents — proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of Virginia residency, and proof of name change if applicable — because missing even one will delay you.
  • Appointments typically take 15 to 30 minutes, but arrive 10 minutes early to allow time for check-in.
  • If you cannot make your appointment, cancel online or by phone at least 24 hours ahead so someone else can use that slot.

What documents to bring to your Real ID appointment

You need four categories of documents. First, proof of identity: a valid passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license. Second, proof of Social Security number: your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. Third, proof of Virginia residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days showing your current address. Fourth, if your name has changed, proof of name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. The DMV staff will examine them and return them to you. If you do not have one of these four categories, your appointment will be rescheduled and you will have to return another day. Bring your confirmation number and a photo if you do not have one on file — the DMV will take a new photo at your appointment.

What happens during your Real ID appointment

When you arrive, check in at the front desk with your confirmation number. A staff member will verify your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. The fee for a Real ID driver's license is $75 if you are renewing or $85 if you are getting your first one; an ID card costs $24. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card.

The staff member will ask you to sign the back of your new license or ID card before you leave. Your Real ID will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it sooner, you can request expedited mail for an extra fee, though this is not always available.

Canceling or rescheduling your appointment

If you need to change your appointment, cancel it online at dmvnow.com or call 1-866-368-4968 at least 24 hours before your scheduled time. Canceling early opens that slot for someone else and prevents a no-show fee. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may be charged a fee on your next visit.

To reschedule, cancel your current appointment first, then book a new one through the same system. Do not straightforward book a second appointment and skip the first one.

Real ID appointments at different Virginia DMV locations

Virginia has about 75 DMV offices statewide. Locations in Northern Virginia and Richmond tend to book up fastest because of population density. Rural and smaller-city offices often have more open slots and shorter wait times, even if you have to drive farther. When you schedule online, you can see which locations have availability and compare dates across multiple offices.

Some DMV offices offer extended hours on certain evenings or Saturdays. Check dmvnow.com for your nearest location's hours before you book. A few offices are appointment-only, while others accept walk-ins during specific windows — the website shows which is which for each location.

What to do if you cannot find an appointment

If all nearby locations are booked, expand your search to offices 30 to 45 minutes away. Appointments often open up as people cancel, so check the website every few days if you are flexible on timing. You can also call 1-866-368-4968 to ask if any cancellations are expected soon at your preferred location.

Walk-ins are accepted at most Virginia DMV offices during designated hours, usually early morning or mid-afternoon on weekdays. Expect a longer wait — sometimes 1 to 2 hours — but you will not need an appointment. Bring all your documents just as you would for a scheduled appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an appointment for someone else?

No. The person getting the Real ID must schedule their own appointment or have a parent or guardian do it for them if they are a minor. You will need to provide the person's information when you book.

What if I lose my confirmation number?

Call 1-866-368-4968 and provide your name and date of birth. The DMV can look up your appointment and give you the confirmation number again. You can also log back into dmvnow.com if you created an account when you booked.

Do I need an appointment if I am renewing my Real ID?

You can renew by mail if your current license is not suspended or revoked and you have not changed your name or address. If you need to visit in person, booking an appointment is recommended but not required — you can walk in during open hours.

How far in advance should I book?

Book as soon as you know you need a Real ID. In busy areas, appointments can fill 4 to 6 weeks out. If you need one urgently, check smaller nearby offices or call to ask about walk-in wait times.

What if my appointment is during work hours and I cannot get time off?

Some Virginia DMV offices have evening appointments until 6 or 7 p.m., and a few offer Saturday hours. Check dmvnow.com for your location's full schedule. You can also use a walk-in slot early in the morning before work or during lunch if your office allows it.