How to Get a REAL ID Passport Card After May 3, 2023

By 2023, you will need a REAL ID in order to fly domestically or visit loved ones at military bases or federal facilities – this could prove challenging for the almost 60% of Americans without passports.

The REAL ID Act established minimum standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards issued by states for use for certain federal purposes, such as boarding commercial flights. Congress granted states until May 3, 2023 to comply with this legislation; most are compliant or have received extensions in meeting these requirements.

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, you will need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles in person and present one proof of identity, two proofs of state residency and verifiable legal name change documentation (i.e. Social Security number or other verifiable form of legal name change). If your existing driver’s license or non-driver ID expires in 2023 or earlier, upgrading can be completed at no additional cost; standard transaction fees and renewal fees will still apply when renewing it – simply pay when renewing it next.

Whenever your name changes on any of the necessary documents, the DMV must update their records accordingly and reissue your driver’s license or ID card to reflect that change. A middle initial is acceptable but legal documents like marriage certificates or court orders that reflect it in order to meet federal REAL ID regulations.