Do You Need to Get a REAL ID When You Move?

Figuring out your driver’s license situation can be a bit difficult when you move, especially if you move out of state. And now, in addition to getting your paperwork in order and, in most cases, making your way in person to the DMV, you also have to decide whether or not to get a REAL ID.

A REAL ID is a rather recent addition to the world of identifying documents, so it makes sense if you’re not quite familiar with it yet—and if you’re a bit confused about where to even start. Requirements on REAL IDs vary by state, but here’s what you need to know in regards to the basics, including how to decide whether or not you should get a REAL ID after moving.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a new form of federal identification. It’s pretty much the same as a standard driver’s license, however in addition to allowing you to legally drive it also adheres to stricter national security guidelines for domestic travel. (As well as stricter guidelines for visiting military bases and other federal facilities.)

Under the REAL ID Act, starting on October 1, 2021 all U.S. residents 18+ who are flying domestically are required to present either a REAL ID or a passport at the airport. Under the previous law, domestic travel requires just a driver’s license, and you only need a passport if you are flying to another country.

To sum it up, a REAL ID is basically a two-for-one identification card for domestic travel. Do note though that you will still need a passport for international travel.

Should You Get a REAL ID When You Move?

If you want, but you don’t have to. So long as you have a valid passport you will still be able to travel domestically with no problem after the REAL ID Act goes into effect in the fall of 2021.

The REAL ID is essentially a convenience, letting you present one form of identification at the airport instead of two for domestic flights. If you travel often within the U.S., it could be a convenience that saves you a fair amount of time in the long run. And if you don’t travel much, it may end up being more of a hassle to apply for a REAL ID card then it’s worth.

Get one if: You don’t have a valid U.S. passport and you plan to fly domestically, visit a military base, or enter federal facilities.

Don’t get one if: You already have a valid U.S. passport or if you don’t intend to fly domestically or visit a military base or federal facility.

Another reason that you might want to get a REAL ID is that it can be cheaper than purchasing both a driver’s license and a passport. A driver’s license in the U.S. can cost anywhere from about $10 to $89, while a passport will run you $110. A REAL ID in your state on the other hand is usually the same cost as a driver’s license, or less if you transfer over an unexpired license.

Keep in mind: your driver’s license alone will still be valid for a lot of things—including voting, receiving federal benefits, and of course, driving.

How to Apply for a REAL ID

You can apply for a REAL ID in the same way you apply for a standard driver’s license. The process almost always includes an in-person visit to the DMV, though some states allow you to start the application online. Use our DMV Change of Address guides for information on how to apply for IDs in individual states.

Be prepared to present a few documents when you apply for your card:

• • Proof of identity (examples: birth certificate, passport or passport card, certificate of U.S. citizenship or a certificate of naturalization)
  • Your social security card
  • Proof of residency, usually two documents (examples: utility bills, W2, pay stub, bank letter, vehicle registration card)

  If your name on your proof of identity does not match your current name then you will also have to bring along proof of name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.

  Not sure if you already have a REAL ID? It’s easy to tell. REAL IDs have some sort of insignia in the upper right corner, such as a white star in a gold circle (Illinois) or a white star in a gold bear (California). If you recently got a new driver’s license it’s possible that you have already obtained a REAL ID.

  List of Accepted Documents for Domestic Air Travel

  A REAL ID is one of many federal identification documents that fulfill the stricter safety guidelines. Similar documents that fit the bill include:

  • • U.S. passports and passport cards
    • Permanent resident cards
    • Current and valid foreign passports
    • Border crossing cards
    • DHS trusted traveler cards
    • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization cards
    • U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential cards
    • U.S. Department of Defense IDs

    What’s missing from this list is standard issue driver’s licenses and state ID cards, which used to be sufficient for domestic air travel but no longer are.

    Answers to Common Questions

    Here’s what you need to know about a few more common REAL ID questions.

    Do minors need to get a REAL ID? The requirements of the REAL ID Act do not apply to domestic travelers under the age of 18, so minors will not require one to fly. This is because the TSA does not require any identification from minors who are flying, provided that they are traveling with an adult companion.

    Do you need to be a U.S. citizen to get a REAL ID card? Some states allow non-U.S. citizens to apply for a REAL ID, but not all. If this situation applies to you, check your local laws to see whether you are eligible.

    Will renewing an existing driver’s license turn it into a REAL ID? No. The application for a REAL ID is separate from the application for a driver’s license, so having the latter does not serve as qualification for the former. If you want a REAL ID when you renew you driver’s license you need to apply from step one, just as you will have to do if you’re getting one after moving.