Plan to go In a big holiday later this year, what about air travel? Even if you are flying within the U.S., it’s better to add more items to this to-do list: Update your license to a real ID. Anyone without a license with a real ID may not be allowed to board a domestic flight in the United States May 7, 2025. Therefore, unless you have a passport on hand as proof of identity, you will need to update your license.
This regulatory change has been in manufacturing for twenty years. The 9/11 committee recommended that a new identity standard be proposed for the September 11 attacks and was introduced in 2005 by U.S. President George W. But despite previous delays, the administration shows no sign that the current deadline will be adjusted again.
Curious about the look of the new license and how to get your own look before the deadline passes? Here is all you need to know about switching to a real ID.
What does the real ID look like?
It looks very similar to your previous driver’s license, so don’t expect any drastic changes in the appearance of the ID. Take out your wallet and check if you’re looking for a real ID Celebrities in the upper right corner license. That was the only major change.
Just as each state has a different design for a driver’s license, the exact implementation of Real ID stars is slightly different depending on your status. Most designs come with a gold circle inlaid with a white star in the upper right corner, but there is a golden bear around the white stars in California. While many real IDs have gold, some states opt for a softer palette.
How do I get a real ID?
To view exactly the steps you need to follow, visit the Department of Homeland Security webpage about updating to a real ID and click the status of your residency. This will take you to another government website and provide more specific information about your state’s update process.
You may have to Apply for a real ID card in person Get ready in your local motor vehicle office Bring a lot of documents With you. Even if the details of your state may vary, let’s take the Missouri requirement as an example to help you understand how much documentation is needed to get a real ID.
First, if you are a resident of Missouri, you need to prove your Social Security number, which is usually a Social Security card, but may also be a W-2 form. You must then display an identity file as well as a legal identity file. For this section, a valid passport or U.S. birth certificate will cover both requirements. Next, two different residence certificates are needed to prove that you are actually living in the state, such as utility bills, employer salary, or auto insurance. Finally, any name change requires additional documents, such as a marriage license.
To save yourself a frustrating, earthy trip to DMV, double check all necessary documents before going to the office. Depending on the state, you may need to make an appointment in advance for a more streamlined experience. (Well, as streamlined as any access to DMV.)
What real ID is needed?
Even if many Americans need to renew their driver’s licenses primarily for travel purposes, in some marginal cases, it is necessary to use a real ID: according to the Department of Homeland Security, you also need it to enter military bases and some federal buildings. Visiting a U.S. nuclear power plant is also a necessary ID.
