REAL ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards, established by the REAL ID Act of 2005. Starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID-compliant identification is required to board domestic commercial flights and access certain federal facilities.
20 steps across 4 sections
1. 1. Proof of Identity and Date of Birth (1 document):
- U.S. birth certificate (certified copy)
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card
- Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570)
- Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561)
- Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Foreign passport with valid visa and I-94
2. 2. Proof of Social Security Number (1 document):
- Social Security card
- Pay stub showing full SSN
3. 3. Proof of Residency (2 documents from different sources):
- Utility bill (gas, electric, water, cable — within 60-90 days)
- Bank or credit card statement
- Mortgage statement or deed
- Rental/lease agreement
- Government mail (tax documents, voter registration)
- Insurance policy or bill
- NOTE: Must be two different sources (e.g., one utility bill + one bank statement)
4. 4. Name Change Documentation (if applicable):
- If your current legal name differs from your identity document:
- Certified marriage certificate
- Court order for legal name change
- Must show complete chain of name changes
Common Mistakes
- Bringing photocopies instead of originals
- Name mismatches
- Expired documents
- Only one proof of address
- Waiting until the last minute