Well, the deadline has been looming for a while and (after multiple pandemic delays) the REAL ID enforcement date is finally happening on May 7, 2025. So, what does that mean? If you plan to fly within the U.S., you must carry REAL ID-compliant identification (or a passport), or you could face a frustrating surprise at the airport. Unfortunately, getting a REAL ID isn’t automatic, so it’s best to plan ahead. Here’s what you need to know—and what documents you’ll need to bring to the DMV—to make the process as smooth as possible.
What is REAL ID?
A REAL ID is an Oregon state-issued driver’s license, permit, or identification card that meets federal security requirements according to the REAL ID Act of 2005. It is not a passport and cannot be used for border crossings.
Is REAL ID Required?
Although the Department of Homeland Security requires all states to offer REAL ID, you are not required to obtain one, and the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles will continue to offer both standard and REAL IDs.
However, as of May 7, 2025, the federal government will require all air travelers 18 years and older to present REAL ID-compliant identification when boarding flights within the United States. You’ll also need one to access certain federal facilities (like military bases and nuclear plants).
Do I have to have a REAL ID to Fly?
After May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID to fly within the United States, but your passport, military identification, permanent resident card, or Tribal Nation identification card will also work. (See the full list at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.)
How to Get a REAL ID
First and foremost, you cannot get an original REAL ID online. However, once you have one, you can renew it or replace it online in the future. To get your first one, you must visit a DMV office in person and bring a series of original documents that prove your identity, date of birth, residence, and status in the United States (see the checklist below).
You can walk into any DMV without an appointment or book online, but again, you must visit the office in person. The appointment (plus wait time) should take an hour or less, but that wait time may increase as the deadline approaches. Once the DMV accepts and scans your documents, your REAL ID card should arrive in the mail in about 20 days.
What does it cost to get a REAL ID?
Your REAL ID is considered an upgrade to your standard license or permit. So, it will cost an additional $30 on top of the standard fee. So, for example, if you need to renew your current driver’s license and add REAL ID, the cost will be $54 for the standard license plus $30 for the upgrade. If you are getting a driver’s license for the first time, you’ll pay a total of $94 ($64 for the standard DL and $30 for the upgrade). If you just need to upgrade (but not renew), it will cost $30.
Your new REAL ID card will be valid for a maximum of eight years. You can upgrade your standard driver’s license, permit, or identification card to REAL ID at any time, but switching does not change the expiration date. So, if you are getting a REAL ID as a replacement or just upgrading, it will be valid for as long as the card you currently have.
REAL ID Checklist
To obtain a REAL ID in Oregon, you’ll need to visit a DMV office in person and provide specific documents to verify your identity, Social Security number, and Oregon residency. Here’s a checklist of the required documents:
1. Proof of Identity and Legal Presence: Provide ONE of the following original or certified documents:
- Unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
- Certified U.S. birth certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- Valid, unexpired permanent resident card
- Unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired U.S. visa and valid I-94 issued by DHS
- Other documents as specified by the Oregon DMV
2. Proof of Social Security Number: You can provide your Social Security number verbally, but it’s recommended to bring one of the following documents:
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- Pay stub with your name and SSN
3. Proof of Oregon Residency: Provide TWO documents from DIFFERENT SOURCES showing your current Oregon residential address (P.O. Boxes are not accepted). Examples include:
- Utility bill
- Bank statement (if you need help finding a current statement, let us know)
- Rental agreement
- Mortgage statement
- Oregon vehicle registration card
- Other documents as specified by the Oregon DMV
All documents must be originals or certified copies; electronic or photocopies are not acceptable. It’s advisable to use the Oregon DMV’s interactive REAL ID document checklist to ensure you have all necessary documentation before your visit.