REAL ID is a Federal Security Standard for IDs that was created in 2005 as a result of increased federal security measures after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Do I have a choice of driver license/ID
types? Whether you are getting a new driver's license/ID or renewing your existing credential, the first decision you’ll need to make is, Standard driver’s license/ID or REAL ID driver's license/ID? The cost to obtain a REAL or Standard driver's license/ID card is the same. What is a Standard driver's license/ID? Start your application onlineGet Ready Online! All driver's license and ID transactions can be started online to save time. You can save time at an RMV Service Center by starting any driver's license or ID transaction online. You can even finish some online. If you can’t finish online, at the end of the application you’ll get a summary of your application and a list of documents you’ll need to bring to a service center. Use the RMV's Online Service Center to:
Note: You can renew your driver's license/ID up to one year in advance of your expiration date. Key Actions for Start your application onlineAdditional Resources for Start your application onlineRequired identification documentation: OverviewOnce you’ve decided if you want a REAL ID or Standard driver’s license/ID, get the right documents together. You’ll need to prove your:
All documents must be originals, photocopies and laminated documents will not be accepted. A document cannot be used to prove more than one requirement. NAME MUST MATCH for REAL ID If your current name doesn’t match the one that appears on your lawful presence document(s), you must prove your legal name change in order to qualify for a REAL ID driver’s license/ID card. If multiple name changes, documentation for each name change must be provided. You will need to provide one of the following:
For a Standard driver’s license/ID card, a proof of name change document is not required. Learn more about required identification. You can start any driver’s license or ID transaction online. Starting online means you'll spend less time at an RMV Service Center. Lawful presence documents1 document from this group for either REAL ID or a Standard driver's license/ID. Lawful presence means that you’re legally living in the United States according to federal immigration laws. All U.S. citizens and lawfully permanent residents have permanent lawful presence in the U.S. Non-U.S. citizens who are studying, working, or living temporarily in the U.S. may have temporary lawful presence that may vary in length. For U.S. citizens, a valid, unexpired U.S. passport is sufficient proof of lawful presence. U.S. citizens may also provide a certified copy of their U.S. birth certificate. For permanent residents, a valid permanent resident card (green card) is enough. For non-U.S. citizens, you need to provide valid, verifiable immigration documents as well as proof that you've been granted a legal stay in the U.S. for at least 12 months. Your license or ID will expire when your legal stay is over. Whether you’re getting a REAL ID or a Standard driver's license/ID, you’ll need one of these:
A Puerto Rican birth certificate will only be accepted if it was issued on or after July 1, 2010. For more information on the Puerto Rican birth certificate law, visit the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration website.
Note: The federal government allows for some exceptions to those in temporary protected status (TPS). See Department of Homeland Security's website for current countries designated for TPS. Additional Resources for Lawful presence documentsSocial Security Number (SSN) documents1 document from this group for either REAL ID or a Standard driver's license/ID. You must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN) to apply for any learner's permit, driver's license, or ID card. The RMV will validate the SSN you provide against computer records at the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you do not have an SSN, you may request an application for one by calling (800) 772-1213. If you’re getting a Standard driver’s license/ID, you’ll only need to provide your valid SSN. If you’re getting a REAL ID, you’ll need to bring 1 of the following documents displaying your 9-digit SSN:
*One (W-2/paystub) cannot be used for both the Massachusetts residency and SSN requirements. Two different (W-2s/paystubs) from different employers can be used for both requirements. If you do not have an SSN, you should apply for one at a Social Security office as soon as possible. If you are denied an SSN, you may still qualify for a Massachusetts driver's license or ID card if you can meet other identification requirements. However, to prove that you applied for an SSN, you must present the written denial notice the SSA provided you. The RMV requires your SSN or denial notice to confirm your identity and to maintain your license and driving records. Note: All CDL applicants must have an SSN. Additional Resources for Social Security Number (SSN) documentsMassachusetts residency documents1 or 2 1 for a Standard driver's license/ID, 2 for a REAL ID To prove Massachusetts residency, you’ll need a document showing your current residential address. A P.O. Box isn’t acceptable. Neither is a document mailed “in care of.” You’ll need 2 of these documents for a REAL ID. Standard driver's license/ID applicants need 1 of the following:
*One (W-2/paystub) cannot be used for both the Massachusetts residency and SSN requirements. Two different (W-2s/paystubs) from different employers can be used for both requirements. Additional Resources for Massachusetts residency documentsOther acceptable forms of federal ID for flightsYou may also use an active passport, passport card, or even a Global Entry card to fly domestically. You’ll also be able to use these TSA-approved documents to get through airport security:
Additional Resources for Other acceptable forms of federal ID for flightsRelated GuidesHow much does a REAL ID cost in MN?The initial application/renewal fee is $21.50. The fee for senior citizens age 65+ is $20.75. The fee for a duplicate card is $17.00. The fee for the Reduced Fee ID Card is $0.50.
How much does a REAL ID cost in PA?How much will a REAL ID cost and when will it expire? Customers who choose to get a REAL ID will pay a one- time fee of $30, plus a renewal fee (current renewal fee is $30.50 for a four-year non-commercial driver's license or a photo ID).
How do I make an appointment for a REAL ID in California?Appointments can be made online by visiting www.dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133.
How much does the REAL ID cost in Illinois?The fee to get a REAL ID is $30, which is the same as a regular driver's license or ID. If you recently renewed your license or if your license does not expire for over one more year, you can apply for a REAL ID and pay a $5 fee. Your REAL ID expiration date will remain the same as your original license.
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