Time is running out for Americans to obtain their Real ID ahead of the spring deadline.
Starting May 7, travelers are to be required to show a Real ID or another federally accepted form of identification, such as a passport or military ID, to board flights or enter any federal buildings or military installations. Standard driver’s licenses are to no longer be acceptable.
With the clock ticking, here’s what to know about Real ID and how to pick one up.
This is a sample of a REAL ID-compliant non-commercial driver’s license showing the REAL ID star in the right corner.
What is Real ID and do I need one?
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses. It’s designed to help prevent fraudulent identification, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Real ID is not mandatory for Pennsylvania residents.
Standard driver’s licenses and identification cards are still available. But without a Real ID, individuals must have an alternate form of federally acceptable identification (valid passport, military ID, et cetera) to board domestic commercial flights and enter certain federal facilities once the deadline is reached.
A Real ID is not required to:
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Apply for or receive federal benefits, such as social security or veterans’ benefits.
How do I get a Real ID in Bucks County?
Anyone considering getting their Real ID should first review Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Real ID document checklist to understand the various required documents and forms that need to be submitted.
You can apply for pre-verification online or go to a driver’s license center to have your documentation verified in person.
To help ensure that Pennsylvanians are prepared for the upcoming federal enforcement deadline, PennDOT is also hosting a Real ID Day on Monday, Jan. 13 in the following locations:
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Bensalem driver license center at 4201 Neshaminy Blvd., Bensalem from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Monroeton driver license center at 60 Chiola Lane, Suite 101, Towanda from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Somerset driver license center at 5593 Glades Pike, Somerset from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
How long will it take to get my Real ID?
Pre-verified customers may apply online to receive their Real IDs in the mail within 15 business days.
You can also go in person to a PennDOT driver license center to have your documents verified and your new ID mailed to you.
If you want your Real ID right away, visit any PennDOT REAL ID center to have your documents verified and receive your Real ID on the spot.
You can learn more about the Real ID and the application process on the PennDOT website.
Lacey Latch is the development reporter for the Bucks County Courier Times and The Intelligencer. She can be reached at LLatch@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: When is the Real ID deadline? May 2025. What do I need Real ID for?