What to bring for real id appt

What to bring for real id appt

  • Frequently asked questions about the REAL ID program
  • What does a REAL ID do for me?
  • Am I eligible for a REAL ID?
  • What do I need to do to get a REAL ID?
  • What are the requirements for non-U.S. citizens?
  • Are verifications for a REAL ID gold star done at DMV offices and DMV express offices?
  • Can I get a verified license or ID card any time before my current one expires?
  • Do I have to get a gold star on my license or ID card?
  • Is my driver’s license still valid if I choose not to get a REAL ID?
  • Will my license or DMV-issued ID card show if I accept or reject REAL ID?
  • Can I use my U.S. passport at the airport instead of having this additional identity check done?
  • Does a drive-only license qualify for a verified, REAL ID license?
  • I have a gold star verified license. Do I need to bring additional proof of identity to a DMV service location for renewal?

Frequently asked questions about the REAL ID program

What is the REAL ID program?

The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles renews driver’s licenses and DMV-issued ID cards based on federal REAL ID laws. This program stems from national security measures and federal identification standards set in place after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the U.S.

The REAL ID program also offers additional protection to residents against identity theft.  The same identity verification for federal and state standards requirements for new license and ID card applicants have been offered by the DMV since October 2011.This identity verification is a one-time review of original identity documents.


Does verification cost extra?

No. A driver’s license or ID card renewal is the same cost if your identity is verified or not.

These are the fees for licenses:

  • Regular license renewal for six years: $72
  • License renewal for eight years: $96
  • License renewal for those age 65 or over: $24
  • Commercial driver’s license renewal valid for four years: $70
  • DMV-issued ID cards valid for six years: $22.50

If you don’t need to renew a license and want to obtain a new verified license or REAL ID card, you’ll be charged a one-time $30 fee.

What does a REAL ID do for me?

A verified REAL ID driver’s license or DMV-issued ID card allows residents to fly on a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. A verified REAL ID is needed for these actions due to federal requirements that will take effect as of May 3, 2023.

The Connecticut DMV started offering this verification in October 2011 to allow ample renewal time for residents to become verified prior to May 2023.

Am I eligible for a REAL ID?

Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for a verified credential.

Citizens are subject to verification using the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements Program (SAVE).

One of these forms of identification is required to verify: 

  • Valid U.S. passport
  • U.S. birth certificate
  • U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad
  • Permanent resident card

An Alien Registration Receipt card (Form I-151) is not considered an acceptable document and must be updated before any Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles credentials are issued.

What do I need to do to get a REAL ID?

1. Documents to verify your identity. Examples include:

  • An original birth certificate. If your name is different than what is printed on your birth certificate, another form of identification must be shown like an original marriage license, a divorce decree, adoption papers, or other legal documents. Note: Hospital-issued and Puerto Rico-issued documents prior to July 1, 2010, are no longer acceptable. A U.S. birth certificate with foreign place of birth must also be accompanied by a U.S. passport or passport card, or certificate of citizenship.
  • A Social Security card
  • Original papers that show permanent residency in the U.S.
  • In addition to the above documents, bring two pieces of mail that show your name and current mailing address

View the entire REAL ID document checklist: English version (PDF) | Spanish version (PDF)

2. Make an appointment at the DMV or partner office.

3. Your verified ID arrives in the mail in 20 days. Track the delivery of your new card.

What are the requirements for non-U.S. citizens?

Non-U.S. citizens need to show a permanent resident card or other legal presence documents that prove permanent residency.

Are verifications for a REAL ID gold star done at DMV offices and DMV express offices?

Can I get a verified license or ID card any time before my current one expires?

Yes. A $30 duplicate fee applies.

Do I have to get a gold star on my license or ID card?

No. You can decline verification and just renew your current driver license or ID card.

Is my driver’s license still valid if I choose not to get a REAL ID?

Yes. You can renew your license and legally drive without verifying your ID. Without a REAL ID, your license doesn’t meet federal requirements for a verified ID, though.

Will my license or DMV-issued ID card show if I accept or reject REAL ID?

Yes. The new identity-checked driver licenses and DMV-issued ID cards have a gold star in the upper right-hand corner that indicate your ID is verified.

ID cards without an identity check are stamped “Not for Federal Identification” since they don’t meet the federal standard for identification.

Can I use my U.S. passport at the airport instead of having this additional identity check done?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport can also be used because existing federal standards are built into them. See additional documents, other than a license, ID card, or passport, that TSA will accept at the airport.

Does a drive-only license qualify for a verified, REAL ID license?

No. Under current law, a drive-only license does not qualify for a verified license/REAL ID.

I have a gold star verified license. Do I need to bring additional proof of identity to a DMV service location for renewal?

No. You don’t need to bring any additional documents to the DMV if there’s no changes needed to your license or ID (e.g., change in name or address).

What documents are needed for REAL ID in California?

To apply for a REAL ID, an applicant must provide a valid Social Security number, proof of identity and two proofs of California residency.

How much does a REAL ID cost in KY?

A new eight-year REAL ID will be $48. Applicants who opt for four-year credentials during the first four years of implementation will pay half the cost. New pricing information is available.

What are the 6 points needed for DMV NJ?

6 Points of ID.
At least one Primary Document..
At least one Secondary Document..
A verifiable Social Security Number (SSN), or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), or a letter of ineligibility for an SSN from the Social Security Administration (SSA) ... .
Proof of address..

How long does it take to get a REAL ID in California 2022?

You will receive your new ID card via mail within 3-4 weeks. If you have not received your new ID card after 60 days, call us at 1-800-777-0133 to check the status.