Real ID Enforcement Starting Soon

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has set the enforcement date for REAL ID as May 7. This follows several delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is REAL ID and who needs it?

REAL ID is a federally acceptable identification used to board a domestic flight, enter a military base or enter a federal facility that requires identification at the door.

Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID if they do not have a passport, military ID or other federally acceptable identification.

Am I required to get a REAL ID?

No. Obtaining a REAL ID is optional, but remember the above-listed guidance that goes into effect May 7.

You do not need a REAL ID to drive, vote, enter hospitals, visit the post office, enter a federal courthouse or apply for federal benefits.

How do I get a REAL ID?

If you applied for your first driver’s license after 2003, your REAL ID documents may already be on file with PennDOT. To check, visit here.

If you don’t have the documents on file, you can visit a PennDOT REAL ID Center to get the card on the same day or any PennDOT Driver License Center to get a card in 15 business days.

The staff in my office are happy to provide guidance and assistance with gathering documents, but the REAL ID application must be completed through PennDOT itself.

 

Required Documentation for a Real ID

A commemorative certificate from a hospital does NOT qualify as an official birth certificate.

Acceptable Documents for *U.S. Citizens

Proof of Identity

• An original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the state office of vital records with a raised/embossed seal — issued by an authorized government agency. To order a birth certificate, visit here. A legal birth certificate is usually printed on specialized security paper and contains a raised seal.

— OR —

• A valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card.

Proof of social security number
(Proof must display current legal name and full nine digits of the Social Security Number.)

Any one of the following:
• Social Security card.
• W-2 form.
• SSA-1099 form.
• Non-SSA-1099 form.
• Pay stub.


Two proofs of current, physical PA address:

• Current, unexpired PA driver's license or photo ID card.
• PA vehicle registration card, auto insurance card, or paper or computer-generated utility bill showing your name and address.
• W-2 form.
• Tax records.
• Lease agreements or mortgage documents.


Proof of all legal name changes (if applicable):

Certified marriage certificate(s) for each marriage to track name changes; court order(s) approving a change of legal name or date of birth; or an original or certificated copy of an amended birth certificate.

For more information on REAL ID, visit here.

*Non-citizens should visit PennDOT’s website for a list of acceptable documents.