VIRGINIA — After the deadline was extended several times because of the coronavirus pandemic, Virginians now have less than a year to obtain their REAL ID, which will be required to fly domestically starting May 3, 2023.
Getting a REAL ID isn't necessarily required, but the state recommends it. U.S. passports will still be an acceptable form of federal identification to board any flight or visit a federal property. Those who are under 18 years old are not required to have this ID to fly.
While residents have nearly nine months to obtain a REAL ID, with reports of long lines at many facilities, you may want to get yours sooner rather than later.
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles suggests residents start the application process online.
You will need to visit DMV in-person to provide physical documentation of your identity, legal presence, full Social Security number, Virginia residency (two proofs required) and, if applicable, name change. This applies to all applicants, even if you are a current Virginia credential holder.
It's important to note that the new federally compliant ID card looks slightly different from a traditional Virginia driver's license. This new card will have a little gold star in the top right corner, while a traditional driver's license will be labeled "federal limits apply."
You can visit the DMV by appointment Monday through Friday, or stop by at your convenience any day the agency is open, to apply in person for a REAL ID. Customers can visit any DMV customer service center or take advantage of DMV's mobile operations to apply.
However, if you are an existing customer and want to upgrade to REAL ID, you can start your REAL ID application online. This easy and efficient process will also help you select which documents to bring to DMV. Start your application now. You may also download a copy of the application here.
After you've received your first REAL ID compliant credential, you may renew online according to the standard schedule.
The REAL ID Act was passed after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards.
All applicants for a REAL ID compliant credential, including current Virginia credential holders, must apply in-person and provide DMV with physical documentation of the applicant's identity, legal presence, full Social Security number, Virginia residency (two proofs required) and, if applicable, name change.
There are many documents you can provide, so use DMV's Online Document Guide or view the full document list.
Bring one from this category: Unexpired U.S. passport or U.S. birth certificate
Bring one from this category: Social Security card or W-2 form displaying full number.
Note: You will not be required to present proof of your Social Security number if you know the number and DMV is able to electronically verify it.
Bring two from this category: Valid Virginia driver's license, recent utility bills, mortgage statement, or rental lease agreements displaying current residential street address, not a P.O. Box.
Note: You may redact (blackout/whiteout) sensitive financial information.
Name changes: If your name appears differently on your proof documents, you will be asked to present additional documentation to connect the names, such as a marriage certificate filed with a government agency or court, divorce decree, or court order.
Marriage licenses, civil union documents, and marriage certificates signed only by the wedding officiant (for example, a member of the clergy) will NOT be accepted.
See REAL ID FAQs for more information.
All documents must be originals and will be subject to verification; however, printouts of acceptable online residency documents can be used as proof of residency. Temporary documents and photocopies of documents will not be accepted.
Apply In Person At DMV: Virginia DMV does not have a process by which customers can pre-scan and upload REAL ID documents from home. In order to get a REAL ID, you must bring your documents to Virginia DMV for review. Any website claiming to provide this service is not affiliated with Virginia DMV. Customers may fill out a REAL ID application in advance; however, this process will not ask you to scan and upload documents.
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