Since May 7, 2025, the TSA has required REAL ID-compliant identification to pass through security on any flight within the United States and to enter federal buildings. A regular driver's license is no longer sufficient. If you are a permanent resident, have DACA, TPS, asylum, or a work visa, you can apply for one ; if you lack immigration status, you cannot, but there are alternatives for flying. This guide explains what REAL ID is, what documents to bring to the DMV, and what to do in each case.
What is the Real ID
It's not a new card: it's your driver's license or state ID card issued with the security standards of the REAL ID Act of 2005 (passed after 9/11). It's recognizable by a star in the upper right corner (gold, black, or inside a circle, depending on the state). It's issued by your state's DMV, not the federal government, and the difference from a regular driver's license is that the state verified your identity, immigration status, and address using original documents.
What it is used for and what it is not used for
| Yes, you need it for | You don't need it to |
|---|---|
| Passing through TSA security on flights within the U.S. | Driving (the normal license remains valid) |
| Entering federal buildings that require identification (SSA offices, federal courts) | Vote, open a bank account, buy alcohol, apply for benefits |
| Entering military bases | Travel by car, bus or train |
| Traveling abroad (that's what a passport is for, not a Real ID) |
Who can obtain a Real ID
Anyone who can demonstrate legal presence in the United States: citizens, permanent residents (green card holders), individuals with DACA, TPS, approved asylum or refugee status, holders of valid work or study visas (H-1B, L-1, TN, F-1, among others), individuals with employment authorization (EAD), and applicants with a pending case who have a valid USCIS document. In these cases, the Real ID expires along with the immigration document, not after 5 or 8 years like a normal driver's license; it is renewed by presenting the new document.
Those without immigration status cannot obtain a Real ID in any state. However, in 19 states and Washington, D.C. (California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii), a standard driver's license without immigration status requirements is available , marked with the phrase "Not for federal identification." This license is valid for driving and as identification within the state, but not for air travel.
Documents required by the DMV
The specific requirements are set by each state, but federal law requires four things, and all DMVs ask for original documents or certified copies (not photocopies or photos from your phone):
- Identity and date of birth: valid passport from any country, U.S. birth certificate, green card, employment authorization document (EAD), or naturalization certificate.
- Social Security number: A Social Security card, or a W-2, 1099, or pay stub with the full number. If your status does not allow you to have a Social Security card, many states accept the letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration (requested at the local SSA office).
- Migratory status (if you are not a citizen): green card, EAD, I-94 with valid visa, DACA or TPS approval, asylum letter.
- Two proofs of address In the state: electricity, water or telephone bill, rental contract, bank statement, insurance policy or official correspondence from the last 60-90 days, with your name and address.
If your name has changed (marriage, divorce), bring the official document proving it: the name must match on all documents. The mistake that ruins the most appointments is arriving with only one proof of address or a laminated Social Security card (many DMVs will reject it).
How to process it step by step
- Go to your state's DMV website and use the document checklist (almost all of them have one in Spanish).
- Book an appointment online: the Real ID process is in person the first timeIt is only renewed online afterwards.
- Gather the originals and the two proofs of address.
- At the DMV they take your picture, verify your documents, and you pay the fee.
- You receive a temporary paper license; the star card arrives by mail in 2-4 weeks.
How much
In most states, a Real ID costs the same as a driver's license or identification card , between $20 and $60 depending on the state and the validity period. Some states charge an additional fee for switching to a Real ID before your current license expires (for example, for a duplicate). In Tennessee, there is no extra cost if you switch at renewal; the early switch is charged at the duplicate rate. Check your local DMV's fee schedule.
What if I can't get a Real ID? Alternatives for flying
The TSA accepts other documents at the security checkpoint. The most common ones for the Hispanic community are:
- Valid passport from any country (most used; no visa required for domestic flights).
- Green card (I-551) work permit (EAD, I-766).
- passport card from USA
- Enhanced driver's license (Enhanced DL) from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York or Vermont.
- Trusted traveler cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI.
- Federally recognized military or tribal identification.
Mexican consular IDs and "not for federal identification" driver's licenses are not accepted by the TSA. Anyone arriving at the airport without a valid ID may be subject to additional identity verification; the TSA announced a $45 fee for this process starting in 2026, and access is not guaranteed. Under current law, the practical recommendation is to always travel with your country's passport, even without a Real ID.
Real ID and your business
A Real ID is not required to open an LLC , obtain an EIN, or open a bank account : your passport, driver's license, or standard driver's license plus an ITIN are sufficient for those purposes. You will need it if you travel by plane to trade shows, training sessions, or to visit clients in other states, and for certain appointments at federal offices. If you drive for business, a valid driver's license from your state is still the only requirement.
FAQ
Is it mandatory to have the Real ID?
Not for living, driving, or working. It's only required if you want to use your state license to fly within the country or enter federal buildings; if you have a passport, you can use it instead.
Can I get a Real ID with an ITIN?
An ITIN does not replace a Social Security Number (SSN) for this process. If you do not qualify for an SSN, submit your SSA ineligibility letter along with your current immigration document; if you do not have legal status, you cannot obtain it.
Can I get it with DACA or TPS?
Yes, with a valid approval and work permit. The card will expire on the same date as your document.
Is it valid for traveling to Mexico or another country?
No. To leave the United States you need a passport (and your immigration document to return).
How long it takes?
The appointment lasts less than an hour; the card arrives by mail in 2–4 weeks. In the meantime, the temporary paper license is not valid for flying.
Official sources
This information is general and does not replace the advice of an immigration attorney. Exact document requirements are set by the DMV in each state.
Read the Hispanic Entrepreneurs magazine
