Stress less at the DMV

1. Check Your Eligibility
   Not everyone needs a REAL ID. If you already have a valid passport or don’t plan to fly domestically, you may not need one.
2. Book a REAL ID Appointment
   Walk-ins may be limited. Schedule a REAL ID appointment with your local DMV to save time.
3. Prepare Your Documents
   Missing documents are the #1 reason for delays. Use your state’s checklist before your visit.
4. Apply In Person
   REAL IDs must be issued in person at a DMV office—no online renewals or replacements.
5. Pay the Fee
   Most DMVs charge a small fee, similar to renewing a license.

One of the most common questions people have is: “If I’m not due to renew my license, do I still need to get a REAL ID?”

The short answer: You can get a REAL ID even if you're not up for renewal. But the process is different, and it’s important to understand how it works so you don’t get caught off guard—especially if you’re planning to fly in the near future.

What’s Different About Getting a REAL ID?

Renewing your driver’s license is a relatively simple process, and in many states, it can even be done online or by mail.

Getting a REAL ID is different. Why?

Because REAL ID cards must be issued in person, and you must present specific documents to verify your identity, Social Security number, and residency.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Action	License Renewal	Getting a REAL ID
In-person required?	Often no	Yes
Document upload?	Usually not required	Yes – original documents required
Usable for flying?	Not unless REAL ID-compliant	Yes
Can be done online?	In many states	Must visit a REAL ID DMV

What If I’m Not Due for Renewal?

You don’t have to wait until your license is expiring to get a REAL ID.

In most states—including California, New Jersey, and Maryland—you can apply for a REAL ID at any time by making a REAL ID appointment at your local DMV or MVA office. The DMV will issue you a new license with the REAL ID star, and your previous license will be voided

Do I Have to Get a REAL ID?

No— getting a REAL ID is optional, but highly recommended.

If you don’t plan to fly or visit secure federal buildings, you can stick with your standard license. That credential is still OK for proof of identity or driving. But if you want to use your state-issued ID to board a plane or enter federal facilities, you’ll need to upgrade to a REAL ID.

If you're in the Golden State, here's what you need to know.

Where to Apply:

Visit your local California DMV office. You can also start the application online at the official DMV website before finishing in person.

Quick Tips:

• Appointments are strongly recommended—REAL ID DMV CA gov pages often have long wait times
• Bring your Social Security number even if it’s already on file.
• Be sure to bring two proofs of California residency.

Maryland residents can apply at any MDOT MVA branch. The Maryland REAL ID requires you to bring documents again—even if you previously submitted them. You can use the REAL ID Lookup Tool to check if your license is already compliant.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) offers REAL ID services by appointment only.

Need-to-Know:

• Use the NJMVC REAL ID checklist to prep your documents before booking.
• Appointments are required; no walk-ins allowed.
• Head to NJMVC REAL ID for availability and details.

Not sure if your current license or ID card is REAL ID-compliant? You’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions people have about the program.

The easiest way to check is to look at the front of your driver’s license or state-issued ID card for specific markings. Here’s what to look for:

✅ Check for the Gold Star

REAL ID-compliant cards typically have a gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner of the card. The design of the star may vary slightly depending on the state, but it’s usually:

• A solid gold star
• A star inside a circle
• A white star in a gold background

If you see this star, your ID meets the federal REAL ID requirements and can be used to board domestic flights or access federal buildings.

❌ Look for “Federal Limits Apply”

If your ID has the phrase “Federal Limits Apply” printed on it—usually near the top—it means your license is not REAL ID-compliant. This version of your ID may still be valid for driving or state-level identification purposes, but it won’t be accepted at airport security once REAL ID enforcement begins.

Some states also use other language like:

• “Not for Federal Identification”
• “This card is not REAL ID compliant”

These phrases are a clear indicator that you’ll need to upgrade your license if you plan to use it for air travel or federal access.

What If Your License Doesn’t Show a Star or “Federal Limits Apply”?

In some cases, especially with older licenses, there may not be any visible marking at all. If you can’t find a star and there’s no language about federal limits, your license is likely not REAL ID-compliant.

When in doubt, check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles:

• In California, you can visit the REAL ID DMV CA gov site to check your card type.
• New Jersey residents can verify using tools on the NJMVC REAL ID portal.
• Maryland offers a quick REAL ID Lookup Tool to confirm whether your documents are already on file.

Why It Matters

Now that the federal REAL ID deadline is in effect, a standard driver’s license or ID will no longer get you through TSA security at the airport. You’ll need either:

• A REAL ID-compliant license
• A valid U.S. passport
• Or another form of federally accepted identification

So checking now can save you from stress later—especially if you plan to travel by air for business, vacation, or emergencies.