The Shadow
A REAL ID is an optional, upgraded version of your driver’s license or ID card that has a star in the right corner.
Beginning May 7, 2025, the federal government will require you to present a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or ID card, or another federally approved form of ID, in order to board a domestic flight or enter a secure federal facility or military base (some military bases may already require REAL ID or a federally approved form of ID*).
Since REAL ID is optional in Virginia, you may not need one if you already have another federally accepted form of ID, like a valid U.S. passport or military ID, or don’t travel by plane. However, if you do want one, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Standard License vs REAL ID License
| Applicable Uses | Standard License | REAL ID License |
|---|---|---|
| Drive | Yes | Yes |
| Vote or register to vote | Yes | Yes |
| Verify your identity at banks, utility companies and retail stores | Yes | Yes |
| Apply for or receive federal benefits | Yes | Yes |
| Access health or life preserving services | Yes | Yes |
| Enter federal facilities requiring ID* | No | Yes |
| Access military bases* | No | Yes |
| Board domestic flights beginning May 7, 2025 | No | Yes |
* Secure federal facilities and military bases have the authority to set their own identification requirements. Please verify requirements prior to your visit. Effective immediately, some military bases may no longer accept non-REAL ID compliant credentials, which display “Federal Limits Apply.”
How to Apply for a REAL ID
There are two steps to apply for a REAL ID:
1. Complete an application.
2. Bring the required documents to a DMV customer service center
For more information on how to apply visit – https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/real-id
