How To Get REAL ID In VA If You've Procrastinated

VIRGINIA — The deadline for Virginia travelers to get a REAL ID is next month, and time and opportunity to get one in time is running out.

Starting on May 7, residents will need a REAL ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings, if they don't have a passport or other approved form of identification.

"Time is ticking, and the Virginia DMV is ready to serve you,” said Virginia DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey in a statement. "We recommend starting your REAL ID application online. You can easily check the required documents ahead of time and make an appointment to reserve your spot, making the whole process faster and more convenient."

Demand for REAL ID has been rising in Virginia. According to the Virginia DMV, it issued over 104,000 REAL ID-compliant identification cards in March alone. Since October 2018, more than 4.1 million REAL IDs have been provided in Virginia. The REAL IDs represent 59 percent of active Virginia driver's licenses and ID cards as of March.

To meet demand, Virginia DMV has held REAL ID appointment-only events at several locations, including Tysons Corner, Hampton, Virginia Beach and Chesterfield. It also deployed mobile service teams to Richmond Central, Virginia Beach and Arlington locations to process REAL ID locations.

Here's what you need to know in Virginia:

Who Needs A REAL ID?

Virginia residents who are 18 and older must show a REAL ID, a passport, or other federally-approved identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings when enforcement begins on May 7.

The REAL ID is similar to a regular state identification card or driver's license, but has a small star in the upper right corner.

Federal agencies, including the TSA, will begin REAL ID enforcement on May 7. Agencies may choose to phase in enforcement, but TSA officials have been urging people to upgrade their licenses sooner rather than later "to facilitate a smooth transition."

The REAL ID Act of 2005 does not affect those who only need their ID for driving purposes or identification, and does not apply to those under 18. Virginia DMV says citizens can use the standard's driver's license to drive, vote, verify identity at banks or retail, apply to receive federal benefits, and access health and life-preserving services.

A passport or valid U.S. passport card can still be used to fly domestically and internationally.

What do I need to get a REAL ID?

First, you need to make an appointment through the DMV — and they have been going fast, with Northern Virginia locations showing limited or no availability for driver's license and ID card services before the May 7 deadline.

However, those who need to renew their license or non-driver ID in the next three months have plenty of appointments to choose from.

To get a REAL ID in Virginia, you must bring one proof of identity, two proofs of Virginia residency, one proof of legal presence, and proof or knowledge of your Social Security number to your appointment. A proof of name change is needed if your name is different from the proof documents.

A REAL ID costs $10 plus the cost of the driver's license or ID card. A driver's license for standard vehicles typically costs $32.