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​​​​About REAL ID

​If you plan to fly within the U.S., visit​ a military base or other federal buildings, the Department of Homeland Security will require identification that is REAL ID compliant (or show another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport) beginning May 7, 2025, the new deadline for this Federal Requirement. Wisconsin DMV issues REAL ID compliant products (marked w​ith a ​µ) in accordance with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. If you aren't sure if you have a Real ID, you can check now​.​

​​What it means for you​

• If it’s time to renew your driver license or ID, you can upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant card for no additional fee (if the upgrade takes place at the same time as your renewal).
• If your current driver license or ID will not expire before 2025, and you wish to obtain a REAL ID-compliant card, the cost of a duplicate card will apply.
• Wisconsin offers both REAL ID-compliant and non-compliant driver licenses and ID cards. The cards look similar; REAL ID-compliant are marked with a µ​, while non-compliant cards are marked “NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES.” Should you choose to continue to hold a non-compliant card, you will need another form of identification to board a plane or access federal sites.
• If you have a valid U.S. passport or​ another acceptable form of federal identification, you can use that for identification, in place of a REAL ID-complian​t driver license or ID card. View list of Transportation Safety Administration approved documents.

 Hear more about the new REAL ID requirement and how to get one in this Countdown to REAL ID podcast.

What should I bring to DMV to get a REAL ID?

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, you must present additional documentation when you apply. Original document or certified copy (not a photocopy, fax or scan) from each category is required. Some documents may be used for more than one category, whereas some will only satisfy the requirements of a single category. The document categories include:

• Proof of Name and Date of Birth
• Proof of Legal Presence in the U.S.
  
• Proof of Identity
• Proof of Name Change (if your name is different than what’s on your birth certificate, proof is needed for each name change)​
• Proof of Address (two forms)​
  
• Provide your Social Security Number

Use DMV’s interactive driver licensing guide to receive a personalized checklist of the required documents you will need to bring. It also allows you to pre-fill any required application(s), print and bring with you or submit electronically (if eligible). You may also be able to schedule an appointment for the DMV for faster service.

• Documentation
• Renewal information
• Check your status
• Reinstatement eligibility and requirements
• Getting a driver license
• New residents