The cost of an advanced driver's license varies by state, typically between $20 and $100 for the license itself, plus fees for the required documents
An advanced driver's license (sometimes called an REAL ID compliant license or enhanced license) is not a separate license type in most states — it is an upgrade to your standard driver's license that costs extra at renewal or replacement. The fee itself usually ranges from $20 to $60, but your total cost depends on what documents your state requires you to bring and whether you need to get copies made.
The main reason to get one is federal identification. Starting in 2025, you will need either a passport, military ID, or an advanced driver's license to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you do not have a passport and fly regularly, the advanced license is usually cheaper than getting one. However, if you rarely fly and do not visit federal offices, your standard license works fine for driving and most everyday ID needs.
Key Takeaways
- An advanced driver's license costs between $20 and $100 depending on your state, and you get it when you renew or replace your current license.
- You will need proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) and proof of your current address to explore.
- The main reason to get one is federal travel — you will need it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building starting in 2025.
- If you already have a passport, you do not need an advanced license for flying, though some people get both for convenience.
- Processing time is usually the same as a regular license renewal, though some states offer expedited service for an additional fee.
What documents you need to bring
Your state will require proof of three things: identity, citizenship, and current address. The exact documents vary by state, but here is what most states accept. For identity, bring your current driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID. For citizenship, bring your birth certificate (long-form, not a short-form), U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship.
For your current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address on it. The document usually has to be dated within the last 60 days. If you have moved recently and your driver's license still shows your old address, bring both your old license and a document showing your new address. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because a few states have different rules or accept different documents.
How the cost breaks down by state
Most states charge between $20 and $60 for the advanced license upgrade itself. A few states charge more — some charge up to $100 — and a handful charge less than $20. On top of that, you may pay a standard renewal fee (which you would pay anyway for a regular license) and a processing fee if you are doing it by mail or online.
Some states offer a choice: you can renew your regular license for one price, or upgrade to an advanced license for a higher price. Other states make the advanced license the default and charge less if you want to downgrade to a regular license instead. A few states have stopped issuing regular licenses altogether and only issue advanced licenses now. Your state's DMV website will show you the exact fee for your situation.
When you can get an advanced license
You can get an advanced driver's license when you renew your current license, when you replace a lost or damaged license, or when you change your address. You cannot get one in between — you have to wait until one of those events happens. If your license does not expire for several years and you need an advanced license now for travel, you can replace your current license early, though some states charge a small fee for early replacement.
In-person appointments at your DMV usually take 15 to 30 minutes once you are called. Some states let you renew by mail or online if you are just renewing (not replacing), but upgrading to an advanced license usually requires an in-person visit so they can verify your documents and take a new photo. A few states have started offering online upgrades if you already have a Real ID compliant license in their system.
Advanced license versus passport: which one to get
If you fly domestically more than once a year, a passport is usually worth the cost because it works for both domestic and international travel. A U.S. passport book costs $130 for adults and takes 4 to 6 weeks to arrive (or 2 to 3 weeks expedited for an extra $60). An advanced driver's license costs less upfront and arrives faster, but it only works for domestic travel and federal building access.
Some people get both: the advanced license for quick domestic trips and the passport for international travel or as a backup. If you already have a passport, you do not need an advanced license unless your state requires it or you prefer not to carry your passport for everyday driving. If you do not have a passport and do not plan to travel internationally, the advanced license is the simpler choice.
What happens if you do not get an advanced license
If you do not have an advanced driver's license, passport, military ID, or other federal ID, you will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building starting in 2025. Your standard driver's license will still work for driving, getting into bars or clubs, opening a bank account, and most other everyday uses. It just will not work for federal purposes.
If you fly rarely or have a passport already, you do not need to rush to get an advanced license. If you fly several times a year and do not have a passport, getting an advanced license at your next renewal is usually the most practical choice. Some states have extended the important date or created exceptions for people with disabilities or religious objections, so check your state's DMV website if either applies to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an advanced license by mail or online?
Most states require an in-person visit to upgrade to an advanced license so they can verify your documents and take a new photo. A few states now offer online upgrades if you already have a Real ID compliant license in their system. Check your state's DMV website to see what your state allows.
Do I have to get an advanced license when I renew?
No. You can renew your standard license and keep it as-is. However, some states are phasing out standard licenses and only issuing advanced licenses now. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you have a choice.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship instead. If you do not have any of these, contact your state's vital records office to request a copy of your birth certificate — this usually costs $10 to $25 and takes 1 to 2 weeks.
Will my advanced license work for international travel?
No. An advanced driver's license works for domestic flights and federal buildings only. For international travel, you need a passport, passport card, or other international travel document.
How long does it take to get an advanced license?
Processing time is usually the same as a regular license renewal — typically 1 to 2 weeks for standard service. Some states offer expedited service for an additional fee, which can bring it down to 3 to 5 business days. Check your state's DMV website for current wait times.