How Much Does A Real ID Cost?

Last Updated on April 15, 2025
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Obtaining a Real ID compliant driver’s license or identification card has become a necessity for many citizens planning air travel or access to federal facilities. With Real ID rules going into effect at airport security in May 2025, what will this federally verified ID cost?

This guide examines Real ID pricing state-by-state, what fees cover, application requirements, how costs vary, who needs one, and if it’s ultimately worth budgeting for this enhanced license.

How Much Does a Real ID Cost?

The cost to obtain or renew a Real ID range by state, with most between $30 and $60 total. Here is a typical price breakdown:

• New Real ID Application – $10 to $60+ depending on the state. Some add one-time administrative fees.
• Real ID Renewal – Usually matches standard license/ID renewal fee, around $20-$50 in most states.
• Real ID Replacement – $10 to $30 if lost, stolen or duplicated.

So, expect around $30 to $60 for a new Real ID card or driver’s license, depending on your state laws. Renewing an existing Real ID runs about $20 to $50 in total fees. Costs vary most for first-time applicants.

According to NBC Chicago, there is no additional fee for a Real ID compared to a standard driver’s license. For example, in Illinois, the cost of a Real ID is the same as a regular license, with fees ranging from $30 to $60, depending on the type of ID being issued.

On CBS News, it is noted that while there is no extra fee for Real IDs, enhanced IDs, which also meet Real ID standards, cost an additional $30. This applies to states offering Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs), such as New York and Michigan.

According to Upgraded Points, Real ID costs generally range up to $60, depending on the state. The article emphasizes that applicants should check their local DMV’s pricing structure, as fees vary widely across the country.

On USAGov, it is confirmed that Real ID costs are determined by each state’s DMV and typically align with standard license renewal or issuance fees. Applicants are advised to prepare necessary documents and schedule appointments in advance to avoid delays.

Lastly, News12 New Jersey highlights that while there are no federal fees for obtaining a Real ID, state-specific costs apply. These fees generally range from $30 to $60, consistent with other sources.

What is a Real ID?

The Real ID Act, passed in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. It requires verification of identity, lawful status, residency and other personal details to obtain a Real ID compliant card, denoted by a star or flag icon.

As of May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a Real ID to board domestic flights. Real IDs will also be necessary to enter federal facilities like nuclear sites, military bases, and courthouses.

So, for most citizens, upgrading your standard state driver’s license or ID to a Real ID well in advance of 2025 will be essential to avoid significant hassles.

Real ID Costs in Sample States

Real ID requirements and thus costs are determined on a state-by-state basis. Here are estimated fees in 10 sample states:

*Prices include administrative fees in some states.

As shown, Northeast and West Coast states tend to have higher Real ID costs, from $30 to $60+. Southern and Midwest states like Florida, Georgia and Texas range from $15-25 for new Real IDs. Shop around if you have the flexibility.

What’s Included in the Real ID Cost?

When you pay the Real ID application or renewal fees, what exactly are you paying for? Here are the main components:

• Identity and Lawful Status Verification – Real IDs require extensive proof of identity, legal residency, and state residency documents that must be authenticated. This process is included in the price.
• Data System Checks – Security databases are checked to validate personal information provided in the application. This occurs behind the scenes as part of the Real ID issuance cost.
• Card Production – The physical Real ID card itself must be produced with certain mandated security elements including biometrics. This is covered by state manufacturing costs and fees.
• Administrative Costs – States incur costs for training staff, implementing Real ID systems and procedures, and general program administration. Applicants absorb a portion of these costs through their Real ID fees.

So, in short, applying for a Real ID helps fund increased identity verification and more sophisticated ID card production to meet federal standards. These security enhancements come at a literal cost passed on to consumers.

What Impacts the Cost of a Real ID?

Several factors influence the pricing of Real IDs which causes variance across states:

• State Laws and Budgets – Each state government determines the ID issuance process and sets its own fees based on budgets. Wealthier states may subsidize costs more.
• In-Person vs. Online/Mail Applications – Applying in person rather than through the mail often costs more due to added effort for DMV administrators.
• First-Time Applicant vs. Renewal – Initial Real IDs require more work to establish and verify identity, so first-timers may pay more.
• Faster Service Fees – Some states offer expedited applications for added cost, which guarantees a new Real ID faster for those with urgent needs.
• Late Renewal Penalties – Renewing a Real ID after expiration incurs late fees in most states just like a normal driver’s license.

So Real ID outlay depends on the individual situation – new vs. renewal applicant, applying by mail or in person, and adhering to renewal deadlines. Shop around for the best state option if you have flexibility.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a passport, a birth certificate, or an international driver’s license.

How to Apply for a Real ID (Step-by-Step)

To obtain a Real ID, follow this typical application process:

1. Gather Documents – Have the required documents like your social security card, passport, proof of address, and lawful status papers ready.
2. Schedule an Appointment – Contact your state’s DMV office online or by phone to reserve a specific day and time. Appointments are strongly recommended due to long wait times.
3. Complete the Application – Fill out the Real ID application in person at the DMV providing personal details and documentation.
4. Take New Photo – Get your new photo taken during the application process to update the image on your Real ID card.
5. Pay Fees & Submit – Pay the applicable Real ID fees for new issue or renewal, then submit the paperwork. Your card will arrive within 2-4 weeks.

Applying in person ensures you have all required documents on hand. You can also mail renewals in some states, though new Real IDs require an office visit. Schedule appointments well in advance to avoid last-minute scrambling!

When Should You Obtain a Real ID?

Since Real IDs will be mandatory for domestic air travel and entering federal facilities in May 2025, experts recommend obtaining one well in advance:

• Air Travelers – If you’ll be flying any time after May 2025, apply for your Real ID as soon as possible to avoid rush hour delays as the deadline approaches. Give yourself at least 6 months buffer.
• Federal Employees – Those who work at military bases, federal courthouses or other government buildings should apply right away to avoid access issues down the road.
• Students – If you are in college and need to access facilities like regional VA hospitals for programs or internships, having a Real ID well before 2025 ensures no disruptions.
• Frequent Federal Building Visitors – If you have business that requires frequent federal facility access like courtrooms, nuclear sites, or research labs, don’t delay getting a Real ID to prevent hassles.

Apply today for smooth sailing! Waiting too long risks crammed DMV offices, overwhelmed government staff, and delayed card receipt. Take care of this errand early.

Real IDs vs Other Forms of Identification

Here’s how Real IDs stack up against other forms of federal ID when it comes to validity for airport screening:

• Standard Driver’s License – By May 2025, standard licenses WITHOUT a Real ID star/flag will NOT be accepted for airport security screening without a secondary accepted document like a passport or Global Entry card. Avoid major travel headaches by upgrading to a Real ID well in advance.
• U.S. Passport – Valid U.S. passports can continue to be used to pass TSA screening even after the 2025 deadline, with or without a Real ID. However, a passport card cannot be used for air travel.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) – Like a Real ID, an Enhanced Driver’s License denoting citizenship meets federal standards for domestic flights and land/sea border crossings. Currently offered in a limited number of states.
• Military ID – Valid military identification cards are already Real ID compliant. Military personnel do not need to take any action to prepare for the upcoming requirements.

The bottom line? If you don’t drive, a U.S. passport remains valid for domestic air travel even without a Real ID. But for most citizens, upgrading your state driver’s license or ID card to a Real ID version well in advance of 2025 is the easiest path to remaining flight compliant.

Who Doesn’t Need a Real ID?

While recommended for most, there are some rare instances where a Real ID may not be mandatory:

• Don’t fly domestically – If you never board flights within the U.S., a Real ID is less critical. A standard state ID or driver’s license remains valid for ground travel by car or train.
• Have a valid U.S. passport – Those with a current passport book don’t necessarily need a Real ID to pass TSA security screenings and enter federal sites. A passport card cannot be used for air travel however.
• Have trusted traveler status – Programs like Global Entry provide TSA Pre-Check clearance without requiring a Real ID. But it only works at participating airports.
• Access restricted federal sites rarely – If you practically never enter restricted federal facilities, the urgency for a Real ID decrease. But it’s still recommended for most citizens for flexibility.

For these niche cases, a Real ID may be less of a priority and standard ID may suffice if other documents like a passport establish federal ID verification. But it’s still wise to consider for ease of use.

Final Words

Given the headaches it averts, obtaining a Real ID compliant driver’s license or official state identification card is a smart investment for all citizens who fly domestically or access federal buildings.

The small upfront cost of $10 to $60 to apply or renew pays dividends down the road in avoided delays, rejections, and complications from carrying non-compliant licenses.

While not without controversy and valid privacy concerns, the national Real ID program created an overdue security baseline across all states for formulating identification going forward.

Taking the initiative to get a Real ID well before the May 2025 deadline provides significant peace of mind. Don’t wait – apply early and check this critical errand off your to-do list!

Answers to Common Questions

Can I fly without a NJ Real ID?

If you do not obtain a New Jersey Real ID, you will not be able to fly domestically within the United States using only your standard New Jersey driver’s license after the May 2025 deadline. Without a Real ID, you would need to bring an acceptable alternative like a valid U.S. passport or U.S. military ID to pass TSA screening. Upgrading to a NJ Real ID well in advance is recommended for most travelers.

How much does it cost to renew a real ID in PA?

In Pennsylvania, renewing an existing Real ID compliant driver’s license or identification card costs the same as renewing a standard ID, which is $30.50. For first time applicants, PA charges $35.50 for a new Real ID card or license. These prices include a small administrative service fee on top of the base renewal cost.

Can I go to NJ DMV without an appointment?

It is not recommended to go to a New Jersey DMV office without an appointment. Walk-in customers may experience very long wait times of 3 hours or more. The NJ DMV strongly encourages scheduling appointments online or by phone for all transactions, including applying for a new Real ID or renewing an existing one, to ensure service and minimize wait times.