01/15/2025
URGENT URGENT URGENT. REAL ID has been on hold for so long, that many people have forgotten all about it. This is your PSA that starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID is moving forward. If you would like to fly within the United States, you will need to have the proper documentation. You can either apply for REAL ID on your Driver's License OR there are a few other options. For most people....a PASSPORT BOOK will take care of the requirements for both Domestic and International Travel.
If you do not get a REAL ID, you must have an alternate form of federally-acceptable identification (valid passport, military ID, etc.) to board domestic commercial flights and enter certain federal facilities after May 7, 2025.
You do NOT need a REAL ID to:
Drive.
Vote.
Access hospitals.
Visit the post office.
Access federal courts.
Apply for or receive federal benefits, such as social security or veterans' benefits.
If you're not sure whether a REAL ID is right for you, our REAL ID online wizard(opens in a new tab) may be able to help.
Prepare For REAL ID
Gather Your Documents
The best thing you can do to prepare for REAL ID is to get your documents together. Federal regulations require that PennDOT must verify original versions or certified copies of the following documents for a customer before issuing a REAL ID:
Proof of identity:
An original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the state office of vital records with a raised/embossed seal — issued by an authorized government agency; or
A valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or passport card.
Proof of Social Security Number - proof must display current legal name and full nine (9) digits of the Social Security Number:
A Social Security card;
A W-2 form;
A SSA-1099 form;
A non-SSA-1099 form; or
A pay stub;
Two proofs of current, physical PA address:
A current, unexpired PA license or ID; or
A PA vehicle registration, auto insurance card or utility bill with the same name and address.
Proof of all legal name changes (if applicable):
A certified marriage certificate, court order, or adoption decree issued by your county's family court.
If you are a lawfully present non-U.S. citizen, acceptable documents include:
Unexpired Employment Authorization Card (EAD) issued by DHS; Forms I-766 or Form 1-688B
Valid, Unexpired Permanent Resident Card I-551 Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) Issued by DHS or INS
Unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired U.S. visa affixed, and an I-94 indicating temporary evidence of permanent residence
Some non-U.S. citizens may be required to present additional documentation. Additional information for non-U.S. citizens can be found on PennDOT's REAL ID Information for non-U.S. Citizens page(opens in a new tab).
