With the federal REAL ID deadline approaching, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are encouraging residents to apply now to avoid last-minute delays. At a recent event held at Washington Dulles International Airport, officials emphasized the importance of preparing ahead of the May 7, 2025, deadline.
REAL ID is a federally compliant version of a driver’s license or identification card that will be required for certain activities, including passing through TSA airport security, entering federal buildings, and accessing military bases. After May 7, 2025, individuals 18 and older will need either a REAL ID or another federally accepted form of identification, such as a valid U.S. passport, to perform these activities.
DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey stated, “The Virginia DMV is ready to assist you, and I encourage you to start your REAL ID application online.”
To manage the expected increase in applications, the DMV is expanding its operating hours and hosting appointment-only events at select customer service centres, including those in Tysons Corner, Hampton, and Virginia Beach. Additionally, extended Saturday hours have been implemented. There are currently 76 DMV customer service centres throughout Virginia, and appointment availability will vary by location during April and May.
To apply for a REAL ID in Virginia, residents are encouraged to start the application process online at www.dmv.virginia.gov. However, even if the application begins online, applicants must complete the process in person at a DMV office. A $10 fee is required to upgrade an existing driver’s license to a REAL ID.
Applicants must bring the following documentation:
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- One form of identity (such as a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate),
- Two proofs of Virginia residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement),
- Proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form),
- And, if applicable, legal name change documents (such as a marriage certificate).
The DMV strongly advises residents to check their documents in advance to ensure a smooth application process and avoid unnecessary delays.
Maryland residents can begin their REAL ID application at www.mva.maryland.gov and, like in Virginia, must complete the process in person at a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office.
Once the REAL ID requirement goes into effect on May 7, 2025, standard state-issued driver’s licenses will no longer be accepted at TSA airport checkpoints for domestic flights unless accompanied by another valid form of identification. With the deadline just weeks away, officials urge residents not to wait and to schedule appointments as soon as possible.
The push to implement the REAL ID mandate is part of a federal effort to enhance security and standardize ID verification across the country. For travellers and citizens needing access to secure federal locations, compliance will soon be mandatory.