REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions

REAL ID is a federal law that sets security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards used for federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights and entering certain federal facilities.

REAL ID is optional. You only need one if you want to use your PA driver's license or ID card to:

• Board a domestic flight.
• Enter a military base.
• Access federal buildings requiring identification.

If you have a passport, military ID, or another federally accepted ID, you do not need a REAL ID.

Most applicants will need to go in-person to get a REAL ID.

You may be eligible if you received your first PA driver’s license, permit, or photo ID after September 2003 and your documents are already on file with PennDOT.

You must provide:

• One proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport, birth certificate)
• One proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 in current legal name showing all 9 digits of the Social Security number)
• Two proofs of Pennsylvania residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)

Some applicants may need additional documents (e.g., name changes, non-U.S. citizens).

If your name is different from your birth certificate or passport, you must provide legal proof, such as:

• Certified marriage certificate
• Court order for name change
• Amended birth certificate from the Office of Vital Records

Once you have obtained your first REAL ID in Pennsylvania, all future driver's license renewals will automatically be REAL ID-compliant unless you choose to opt out. There are no additional fees beyond the standard renewal fee, and no additional documents are required. You can renew online, by mail, or in person.

You can update your information when applying for your REAL ID. If you need to change your address later, follow the same process as updating a standard driver’s license.

PennDOT will notify you of the reason. Common issues include:

• Missing or incorrect documents.
• Name mismatches between documents.
• Issues verifying lawful status.

If denied, you may need to provide additional documents or visit a REAL ID Center for assistance.