Certified Center* Update 12.20.2022* Residents of New Jersey have an additional 24 months to obtain their REAL IDs, a document that will be necessary to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings. The enforcement deadline has been extended to May 7, 2025.
REAL ID is the new federal requirement for state-issued driver's licenses and non-driver IDs to help prevent fraudulent identification. After being pushed back because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal REAL ID regulations will go into effect in less than eight months on May 3rd, 2023
Most of the available appointments are snatched as soon as they are available. But with the deadline approaching rapidly, appointments should become readily available.
The REAL ID takes effect on May 3rd of 2023. At that time, you must have a REAL ID – compliant driver’s license to travel within the United States, unless you use a vial U.S. passport. The typical driver’s license will become invalid for domestic flights. A REAL ID driver's license is a recognized driver's license. You will not have to carry another form of identification to drive.
The REAL ID will look different from a traditional driver’s license. The REAL ID looks like your traditional New Jersey driver's license or ID, but with a star in the upper right corner. The Standard driver's license or ID looks similar, but instead of a star, it will have the words NOT FOR “REAL ID” PURPOSES printed on it. Both the REAL ID driver's license and the Standard driver's license are valid for driving
As of today, there are 1,809 appointments available for a REAL-ID non-renewal. Upgrade now, or when you are due for renewal. You can make your appointment at a location nearest to you on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website or click here.
Here’s what you need to know about the REAL ID:
What is REAL ID?
REAL ID is the new federal requirement for state-issued driver's licenses and non-driver IDs to help prevent fraudulent identification.
Do I need a REAL ID?
You are not required to get a REAL ID, however, starting May 3, 2023, if you typically use your driver's license or non-driver ID (instead of a passport or other form of ID) to fly within the U.S. you probably want a REAL ID. Otherwise, you will need to use a valid U.S. passport or another federally approved form of identification. The Standard New Jersey driver's license can still be used for driving.
Who Should get a REAL ID?
REAL IDs are best for those who typically use their driver's license or non-driver ID (instead of a passport or other forms of ID) to fly within the U.S.
What to bring to a REAL ID appointment
You need to bring 2 proofs of residential address, 1 proof of social security number, and 6 points of ID. If you have any questions, you can check here: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/realid/selector.html
Will REAL ID cost more than a standard license or ID?
Yes, the REAL ID will cost $10 more than the traditional license. Costing $35 while traditional ID cost $24.
Is my information shared with the federal government
Yes. Your identification documents will be verified and, under certain circumstances, shared with the federal government. You can find out more by visiting the website DHS website.
If you have any other questions, please check your state's motor vehicle website. You can find information about the New Jersey Real ID here: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/realid/