Real ID Deadline Approaching—Here’s What You Need to Know

With less than 60 days until the Real ID deadline, Florida residents who haven’t updated their driver’s licenses or ID cards need to act fast.

Starting May 7, a Real ID will be required to board domestic flights, enter military bases, and access secure federal facilities. Florida has been issuing Real IDs since 2010, but many are rushing to update their IDs before the deadline.

A Real ID looks almost identical to a standard driver’s license, except for a small star in the upper right corner. To get one, you must visit a driver’s license service center or tax collector’s office in person—appointments are recommended.

What to Bring

U.S. citizens must present one of the following:

• A valid, unexpired U.S. passport
• An original or certified birth certificate
• A Consular Report of Birth Abroad
• A Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship

Non-citizens need one of these:

• A valid Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• A valid passport (except for asylum applicants and refugees)
• Government-issued proof of lawful presence

All applicants must also provide:

• A Social Security card or proof of their Social Security number
• Two documents proving their principal residence

If your name has changed due to marriage or divorce, your legal name change must be updated with Citizen and Immigration Services (CIS) first.

Florida law allows you to hold either a Real ID driver’s license or a Real ID card—but not both. If you currently have both, one will be canceled at your next renewal.

For more details, visit the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website.