Do You Need Real ID If You Have a Passport?

No matter who you are or your legal status in America, the government wants to make sure that everyone has the proper paperwork in order. One step toward that end is getting a driver’s license; but for noncitizens this process may become increasingly challenging as their papers change with age or they lack legal status here. Thus the federal REAL ID Act comes into play, which our founders would likely view as an attempt by federal legislators to coerce state governments into creating a national identification system.

This article gives Pennsylvania residents an overview of the requirements to obtain a REAL ID driver’s license or state identification card and details how and where to get one. REAL ID will become necessary in order to fly domestically and enter some secure federal facilities beginning May 7, 2025; those whose current driver’s license or ID card expires prior to that date and don’t possess valid passport, military ID or another form of federally acceptable ID should visit a DMV or Department of Homeland Security facility to get one.