01-05-2025
What is required for REAL ID in Pennsylvania?
(WHTM) – The REAL ID deadline is fast approaching, potentially limiting access to flights and certain government buildings.
If you do not have your REAL ID ahead of the May 7 deadline, here's what you need to know to get one in Pennsylvania.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, there are four things you must provide when applying for a REAL ID:
One document proving identity and lawful status
U.S. birth certificate with a raised seal, issued by a government agency, Office of Vital Statistics and Records (not a hospital or souvenir certificate)
Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561)
Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240, DS-1350, or FS-545)
Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570)
Unexpired Employment Authorization Card (Form I-766 or I-688B)
Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) (Form I-551)
Unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and I-94 form showing permanent residence
One document proving your Social Security number with a current legal name and all nine Social Security numbers
Social Security card
W-2 form
SSA-1099 form
Non-SSA-1099 form
Pay stub with full Social Security number
Two physical documents proving your Pennsylvania residency.
Current PA driver's license or photo ID
PA vehicle registration card
Auto insurance card
Utility bill with your name and address
W-2 form
Tax records
Lease agreement or mortgage document
Any mail that has moved through the US postal service
If you have changed your legal name at any point, you must bring proof of your legal name change. This can be a marriage certificate, a court order approving a name or date of birth change, or an amended birth certificate.
PennDOT says if you were married more than once, you should provide marriage certificates showing each name change.
Divorce papers are only needed if you have returned to using a maiden name.
PennDOT also says that if your gender designation has changed, you must provide a completed DL-32 form.
PennDOT has a checklist of documents that can be used that may assist with you obtaining a REAL ID.
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PennDOT locations are hosting REAL ID days ahead of the deadline to help those looking to obtain their REAL ID.
If you received your first Pennsylvania driver's license, learner's permit, or photo ID card after September 2003, PennDOT may have your documents on file, and you may be able to apply for one online.
Holding a passport while standing in a long line to get a Real ID? You're doing it wrong
After May 7, you will need a REAL ID to board a commercial flight and enter certain federal facilities. You do not need a REAL ID to vote, drive, access federal courts or post offices, or apply for federal benefits.
You can also still receive a REAL ID after May 7.
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