You’ll soon need a REAL ID to fly domestically. Here’s how to get one in Pennsylvania
The deadline is looming for Pennsylvanians who want to continue using their state-issued driver’s license or identification to fly domestically, visit military bases or even enter federal facilities requiring IDs.
Barring that, you’ll need to show your U.S. passport or another form of identification compliant with the federal REAL ID law, which will become enforceable May 3, 2023. REAL ID is being implemented in all 50 states.
REAL IDs are available to Pennsylvanians who want them, and we’ve put together this guide to include information about how and where to get one, how much they cost and more.
So how do you get your REAL ID in Pennsylvania? First, you’ll need to gather several different kinds of documents.
What documents are needed for a REAL ID in Pennsylvania?
Save yourself a headache by gathering your documents first. You’ll need originals or certified copies of your documents, as photocopies won’t be accepted.
Here’s what you’ll need to show:
Proof of identity - This could be your original or a certified copy of your birth certificate or a valid and active U.S. Passport or passport card.
Proof of social security - Your social security card with your current name, which demonstrates your citizenship or legal status to work in the U.S.
Two forms of proof of your current, physical Pennsylvania address - A utility bill, an auto insurance card or your standard-issue driver’s license or ID are acceptable documents to verify your residence in Pennsylvania.
Proof of all legal name changes - This won’t apply to everyone, but those who have undergone a name change. If you’re married or divorced, bring your marriage certificate or divorce decree.
If you’re a non-U.S. citizen authorized to work in the U.S., you can show the following documents to obtain a REAL ID:
Unexpired Employment Authorization Card (EAD) issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Forms I-766 or Form 1-688B
Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card I-551 Permanent Resident Card (green card) issued by DHS or the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service.
Unexpired foreign passport with an unexpired U.S. visa affixed, and an I-94 indicating temporary evidence of permanent residence
Some non-citizens might be asked to present additional documents. See additional information from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation about this.
You can find a print-friendly checklist of the documents you need to get a REAL ID available online.
How do you get a REAL ID in Pennsylvania & what’s the cost?
The good news is you might be able to avoid the hassle of showing up in-person to get your REAL ID. If you got your first Pennsylvania driver’s license, learner’s permit or photo ID card after Sept. 1, 2003, PennDOT may already have all required documentation on file.
Find out if this applies to you by pre-registering online ahead of time. If the state agency has your documents, you can order your REAL ID online, and you should get it in the mail within 15 business days.
If you do need to visit a PennDOT REAL ID center, you can find a list of locations online.
According to PennDOT, a REAL ID comes with a one-time fee of $30 and an additional renewal fee, which is $30.50 for a four-year, non-commercial driver’s license or photo ID.
Is it mandatory to get a REAL ID in Pennsylvania?
No, it’s not, but you might find it more convenient to have one if you plan to board a flight, visit a military base or a federal facility after May 3, 2023.
According to PennDOT, you do not need a REAL ID to drive, vote, visit hospitals, go to the post office, access federal courts or apply for or receive federal benefits like social security or veterans’ benefits.
If you’re on the fence about it, this PennDOT tool could help you decide if a REAL ID is right for you.
This story was originally published October 17, 2022 at 3:53 PM with the headline "You’ll soon need a REAL ID to fly domestically. Here’s how to get one in Pennsylvania."