Traveling soon? You'll need a REAL ID going forward. Here's what Virginians need to know.

Yahoo

26-04-2025

After years of delays, the federal government is finally going to begin enforcing the REAL ID requirement May 7. That means you'll need a REAL ID if you use your driver's license or state ID to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings.
'At the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there's no 'last day' to get a REAL ID—just plenty of good days to apply—because DMV is issuing REAL IDs year-round,' a DMV spokesperson said in a release. 'The key is for customers to have a REAL ID before their next domestic flight or visit to a secure federal facility.'
Other forms of identification, like passports, will still be accepted. The REAL ID, which costs a one-time fee of $10 in addition to the standard fee for an ID, is optional in Virginia. You won't need it to drive or to vote.
Lines at local DMV offices to get REAL IDs have reportedly been long. Those who are traveling soon without a passport should plan on making an appointment to get one now, the DMV said.
To get a REAL ID, start the application process online at the DMV's website, or fill out the paper application at a DMV customer service center. Once you've scheduled an appointment at the DMV, you'll be asked to provide:
One proof of identity.
Two proofs of Virginia residency, like bills or mail.
One proof of legal presence, like a passport, visa or birth certificate.
Proof of your Social Security number (SSN), if you have been issued one. If you know your SSN, DMV can verify it electronically.
Proof of name change, if your name appears differently on your proof documents
$10 fee, plus the cost of the driver's license or ID card you're applying for. For example, a standard driver's license renewal costs $32, while a standard driver's license replacement costs $20.