18-04-2025
How much does a Real ID cost in Massachusetts? What to know ahead of May deadline
In just a few weeks, most travelers around the country will need to have a Real ID.
Starting May 7, domestic flyers will be required to have a Real ID seal on their identification card or driver's license, unless they choose to use a passport or another accepted alternative.
The requirement is part of The Real ID Act of 2005, which put in place certain security standards for licenses and identification cards, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
While it's a national standard, each state has a different fee associated with upgrading to a Real ID.
The cost of upgrading to a Real ID in Massachusetts depends on whether or not the license is also being renewed, according to the RMV.
Renewing a non-commercial standard or a Real ID driver's license: $50
Upgrading to Real ID before an existing credential's expiration: $25
A Real ID is a form of identification that meets certain security standards to enter federally-regulated buildings, aircrafts and nuclear power plants.
They are easily distinguishable from regular IDs because they have a yellow star in the corner.
The original Real ID deadline was set to take effect in 2020 but was pushed back several times due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Melina Khan is a trending reporter for the USA TODAY Network - New England, which serves more than a dozen affiliated publications across New England. She can be reached at MKhan@
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: How much does a Real ID cost in MA? Deadline to switch is coming up
