While the federal government gave us some breathing room, the new deadline for REAL ID will be here before you know it. Our Driver and Vehicle services (DVS) division is encouraging you to get ready now and beat the rush.

You've got until May 7, 2025, to get a REAL ID-compliant license. When the deadline hits, Minnesotans and the rest of U.S. travelers won't be able to use their standard driver's license to fly within the U.S. or visit some federal buildings. Instead, they will need to have a REAL ID-compliant license or a federal passport.

“Minnesotans need to know: REAL ID is going to happen. Get yours now and avoid the possibility of waiting in long lines before the May deadline," said DVS Director Pong Xiong. “You only need to apply for it once, and then renewing after that is easy."

The most important part of getting a REAL ID is having the right documents to prove your identity and residency. DVS has a full list of what you need, but the short version is this: You need one document proving your identity, date of birth and legal U.S. presence, and two documents proving your Minnesota residence.

 The documents must be original. DVS cannot accept:

• Photocopies
• Scanned images
• Faxed images
• Digital images on a cell phone or other electronic device
• Laminated documents

The name on those documents must match the name on the application. If you've changed your name for any reason, you'll need to bring proof of each name change from your birth to present day. Examples of acceptable proof include certified copies of:

• Marriage certificate
• Divorce decree or dissolution of marriage
• Adoption decree
• Court-ordered name change

If you've got questions, DVS has answers. Check out our REAL ID page for more information.

Shave off time at your o​ffice visit by pre-applying online. The mobile-friendly web application includes the options to upload documents, so DVS can verify you have the right documents. It also lets you receive your REAL ID driver's license or ID card in 7-10 business days.