How much is a real drivers license

Federal agencies have the authority to set their own minimum security access requirements and, if desired, decide not to accept noncompliant marked cards before the May 3, 2023 deadline.

For example, The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) recently finalized an update to its DoD-wide installation security policy and is in the process of no longer accepting noncompliant marked cards across all of its facilities and installations. However, DoD will continue to accept state-issued noncompliant unmarked "legacy" cards until the May 3, 2023 deadline.

To ensure you have the proper identification, DHS recommends that you contact the federal agency you plan to visit in advance, to obtain information regarding identification requirements.

As a reminder, the REAL ID Act applies when an individual presents a state-issued driver’s license or identification card to a federal agency for an “official purpose” as defined in the Act and regulations, such as boarding a federally regulated commercial aircraft. Although a REAL ID card may not be necessary for other purposes such as driving, voting, banking, or applying for benefits or employment, we recommend checking with the relevant state, local, or commercial entities regarding their specific identification requirements.

For more information about the REAL ID Act, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website at dhs.gov/real-id.

REAL ID is the new federal requirement for state-issued driver licenses and non-driver IDs to help prevent fraudulent identification.

Do I need a REAL ID?Why do I need a REAL ID?Is everyone required to get a REAL ID?

You are not required to get a REAL ID; however, starting May 3, 2023, if you typically use your driver license or non-driver ID (instead of a passport or other form of ID) to fly within the U.S. you probably want a REAL ID. Otherwise you will need to use a valid U.S. passport or another federally approved form of identification. The Standard New Jersey driver license can still be used for driving.

When will NJ have REAL ID?When can I get my REAL ID?When should I get my REAL ID?

REAL ID is available at all Licensing Centers by appointment. Upgrade now, or when you are due for renewal.

What is the difference between a REAL ID driver license or non-driver ID and a Standard driver license or non-driver ID?

The major difference is that a Standard driver license or non-driver ID will no longer be accepted as identification to fly within the U.S. after May 2, 2023. The REAL ID looks like your traditional New Jersey driver license or ID, but with a star in the upper right corner. The Standard driver license or ID looks similar, but instead of a star, it will have the words NOT FOR “REAL ID” PURPOSES printed on it. Both the REAL ID driver license and the Standard driver license are valid for driving.

Will a REAL ID driver license or non-driver ID look different than a Standard driver license or non-driver ID?How do I know I have a REAL ID?

The REAL ID driver license or non-driver ID looks like a traditional New Jersey driver license or non-driver ID, but with a star in the upper right corner. The Standard driver license or ID looks similar, but instead of a star, it will have the words NOT FOR “REAL ID” PURPOSES printed on it.

What do I need to bring to the Motor Vehicle Commission agency to get a REAL ID?What documents do I need to bring to the Motor Vehicle Commission agency to get a REAL ID?What documents do I need to get a REAL ID?

People are probably familiar with what they currently need to provide at the Motor Vehicle Commission agency as proof of identification for a Standard ID. They need to have a verifiable Social Security Number, they need to provide 1 document as proof of address and they need to provide identity documents that add up to 6 points according to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission guidelines.

For REAL ID there is going to be some New Math happening at the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission!

2 + 1 + 6 = REAL ID

What does this mean? It means you will need to bring the following with you to get a REAL ID:

• 2 documents as proof of your address

• Your Social Security Number

• Identity documents that add up to 6 REAL ID* points

You can use this document selector tool

*Point values are different for a REAL ID vs. a Standard ID

Why are you scanning and storing my information?

It is a federal requirement for security purposes that we scan the documents and keep them securely stored in an encrypted format.

Is my information shared with the federal government?

Yes. Your identification documents will be verified and, under certain circumstances, shared with the federal government. You can find out more by visiting the website DHS website.

Make an appointment here.

Please note that the MVC adds hundreds of REAL ID appointments each day, but demand is very high. We have been working aggressively to move transactions online and improve transaction speeds in our 24 Licensing Centers to expand the capacity to issue REAL IDs, which require an in-person visit.

Can I take care of my transaction online?

We have added more online services, so drivers don't have to visit an agency for certain transactions, such as renewing a standard driver license or non driver ID - so check to see if you can "Skip the Trip" to Motor Vehicle. 

Can your REAL ID act as your driver license?

Yes, a REAL ID driver license is a recognized driver license.

What’s the earliest age you’ll need a REAL ID?

By federal law, people who are 18 and older after May 2, 2023, will need a REAL ID to fly within the U.S. if you do not have a valid passport to use. More information can be found on the federal DHS website.

Will my current driver license or non-driver ID be acceptable as identification to fly within the U.S.?

Only through May 2, 2023. Starting May 3, 2023, if you typically use your driver license or non-driver ID (instead of a passport or other form of ID) to fly within the U.S., you probably want a REAL ID. Otherwise you will need to use a valid U.S. passport or another federally approved form of identification. The Standard New Jersey driver license can still be used for driving.

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