HAMPTON ROADS — With the May 7 REAL ID federal enforcement deadline fast approaching, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles and the Transportation Security Administration are reminding Virginians to avoid the last-minute rush and apply for a REAL ID before the deadline.
While REAL ID is a choice for Virginians, beginning May 7, people who plan to fly domestically or enter federal facilities — including courthouses and military bases — must present a REAL ID-compliant credential or another federally accepted document, such as a U.S. passport or military ID. A star on the top right corner of a Virginia driver’s license or ID indicates REAL ID compliance.
To get a REAL ID-compliant license, individuals will need to visit the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website where they can start the application process online and then bring necessary documents to a nearby DMV Customer Service Center to prove U.S. citizenship and Virginia residency.
Required documents include one proof of identity (passport or U.S. birth certificate), proof of legal presence for non-U.S. citizens, two proofs of Virginia residency, your social security card (if you’ve been issued one) and a current driver’s license if you are applying to exchange one issued by another U.S. state.
“Time is ticking, and the Virginia DMV is ready to serve you,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey. “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.”
For more information and details about how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card and make an appointment, visit the REAL ID Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website.