Everything you need to know about Real IDs in Pennsylvania before they are required for travel

Beginning May 7, U.S. residents 18 years of age and older will need a Real ID or a Real ID compliant driver’s license (or other Real ID compliant ID), to fly within the U.S. and to enter certain government facilities.

UPDATE, MAY 7: On Tuesday, May 6, head of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said that those who still lack an identification that complies with the REAL ID law will still be allowed to fly but “may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step.”

To that end, the TSA warned people who don’t have the REAL ID to show up to the airport early and be prepared for advanced screening to avoid causing delays.

A show of hands if you still haven’t gotten your Real ID.

The deadline to get your Real ID has been extended multiple times since the law was initially passed 20 years ago (you read that right), including four times since the COVID-19 pandemic. But now, that deadline is looming, for real (no pun intended).

Beginning May 7, U.S. residents 18 years of age and older will need a Real ID or a Real ID compliant driver’s license (or other Real ID compliant ID), to fly within the U.S. and to enter certain government facilities.

Here are several things to know about Real ID in Pennsylvania:

What it is

Real ID is a more secure version of the traditional driver’s license. The cards look like a standard driver’s license or identification card, but include a gold star in the top right corner.

When you’ll need it

Starting May 7, you’ll need a Real ID to fly within the U.S. or to visit a federal facility, like a military base. As long as it hasn’t expired, your driver’s license will still be valid after that date, but you won’t be able to fly domestically unless you have a valid U.S. passport. TSA also accepts several other forms of identification.

How to get one

You need to go to a PennDOT Driver License Center to get a Real ID in Pennsylvania. Find the location closest to you here. 

Although you can’t complete the process online, you can begin the pre-verification process. Note that if you received your first Pa. learner’s permit, driver’s license, or photo ID card before September 2003, you are not eligible for online pre-verification, but you can bring your required Real ID documentation to any PennDOT driver license center for in-person pre-verification. 

You will need to provide one document proving your identity and your lawful status in the United States when applying for a Real ID, such as a U.S. birth certificate or a valid passport. You can find a list of the required documentation here.

PennDOT has been holding Real ID Days across the state, where select driver license centers exclusively process Real IDs, and two more are scheduled: next Monday, April 28; and Monday, May 5. 

How much it costs 

There is a one-time Real ID fee of $30, though if you have to renew your driver’s license at the same time, it’s $69.50 total. 

Your first Real ID will be valid for your current license term plus four years. After your Real ID expires, you can renew every four years without extra fees for Real ID.

For more info on Real ID, you can check out this FAQ page from the Department of Homeland Security.