Beginning May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will enforce the REAL ID Act, requiring travelers 18 and older to present REAL ID-compliant identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. In New Jersey, standard driver's licenses and non-driver IDs will no longer be accepted for these purposes unless they are REAL ID-compliant.

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID is a federal requirement for driver's licenses and state IDs to enhance security and prevent identity fraud. A REAL ID-compliant license or ID has a star in the upper right corner. Without this marking, your ID will not be accepted for boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities as of the implementation date.

Do you need a REAL ID?

Obtaining a REAL ID is not mandatory. However, if you plan to use your New Jersey driver's license or non-driver ID to fly within the United States or enter federal facilities, you will need a REAL ID-compliant version. Alternatively, you can use a valid U.S. passport or other federally approved identification.

How to Get a REAL ID in New Jersey?

To obtain a REAL ID in New Jersey, you must visit a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Licensing Center by appointment. You can update your ID at any time or wait until your current license or ID is about to expire. The NJMVC has implemented REAL ID Thursdays, adding approximately 4,500 new appointments on Thursdays to meet the growing demand.

Required documents

When applying for a REAL ID, you must present:

• Two proofs of New Jersey residency, such as utility bills or bank statements.
• A document that verifies your Social Security number, such as your Social Security card or a W-2 form.
• Identification documents that total six points, which may include your U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or other approved documents.

All documents must be originals or certified copies in English, and must have the required state and/or municipal seals.

Emergency Issuance Program

The NJMVC offers an Emergency Issuance Program for individuals with urgent travel needs within a 14-day period who do not have a REAL ID or other acceptable identification. Applicants must provide documentation of their travel plans and pay an $80 expedited shipping fee. Please note that this service is not available to those who already have a valid U.S. passport or other acceptable identification.

Additional Resources

• REAL ID Document Selection Tool: Real ID: What to Bring
• REAL ID FAQ: Real ID FAQ
• Appointment Scheduling: NJ MVC Appointment Scheduling