DO I NEED A REAL ID - Gold Star on My License or ID - Why You Need a REAL ID Gold Star

Sep 20, 2026

Uploaded by Mia

Explains whether individuals need a REAL ID gold star on a driver’s license or ID and what the gold star indicates for compliance. Covers federal requirements effective May 7, 2025 for domestic flights and entry to federal facilities or military bases. Provides a checklist for obtaining a REAL ID, including proof of identity, proof of SSN, and residency, plus documentation for legal name changes. Also outlines costs, renewal options, and a link for a customized document list.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages2

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

Do I need a REAL ID gold star?

How to get a REAL ID gold star

Schedule an appointment and bring original documents

Proof of identity

Proof of social security number (SSN)

Proof of residency

Legal name change documents

Cost and where to get a customized document list

DO I NEED A REAL ID GOLD STAR ON MY LICENSE OR ID Why do I need a REAL ID gold star? REAL ID is a nationwide federal initiative designed to enhance security and protect against identity fraud. Getting a REAL ID gold star is optional, but as of May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID goldstar on your driver’s license/ID or another TSA approved identity document, like a passport, to fly within the U.S. See the chart below to determine if you need a REAL ID gold star. Driver’s License/ID and Approved Use REAL ID gold star Driver’s License or ID Gold star in upper right corner Standard Driver’s License or ID “NOT FOR REAL ID ACT PURPOSES”or blank in upper right corner Driving (driver’s license only) General identification purposes Boarding domestic (U.S.) flights after May 7, 2025 Enter a federal facility (that requires ID) or military base See reverse side for how to get your REAL ID gold star HOW TO GET A REAL ID GOLD STAR ON YOUR LICENSE OR ID Schedule an appointment online at: [www.iowadot.gov/mvd/appointments](www.iowadot.gov/mvd/appointments and)[ and](www.iowadot.gov/mvd/appointments and)[ ](www.iowadot.gov/mvd/appointments and)bring the following original documents or certified copies (no photocopies). |
1
Proof of identity one of the following | | --- | | • Official birth certificate (not the one with baby footprints)
• Valid U.S. passport
• Most recent U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services immigration or refugee document | |
1
Proof of social security number (SSN)
one of the following showing your name and entire SSN: | | --- | | • Social security card
• W-2 or 1099, 1095, pay stub, bank or credit card statement, find other examples online | |
2
Proofs of residency two items showing your name and address where you live. (no P.O. boxes) | | --- | | • Utility bill, bank or credit card statement, pay stub, piece of postmarked mail
• Find other examples online | ? Proof of any legal name changes Any of the following if your current name differs from the name on your proof of identity document. This is not required if your current legal name is already listed on your Iowa license/ID and on your social security card. • Certified marriage certificate if your last name changed • Divorce decree indicating a name change • Court order under petition for name change Beginning May 7, 2025, if you don’t have a REAL ID, you will need to show a different TSA-approved identity document (like a passport or military ID) to fly or enter a federal facility that checks ID upon entrance. How much will it cost me? $ You can get a REAL ID when it’s time torenew your license or ID at no additional cost. $ If you need a REAL ID card before your license or ID expires, come in any time and apply for a replacement card marked as REAL ID compliant for a $10 fee. Unsure of what documents you need to bring? Get a customized list [at:](at: www.iowadot.gov/realid)[ www.iowadot.gov/realid](at: www.iowadot.gov/realid) MM1100 01/18/2024

FAQs

What is the REAL ID gold star requirement and when does it apply?

REAL ID is a federal initiative to enhance security and protect against identity fraud. As of May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID gold star on your driver’s license/ID or another TSA-approved identity document to fly within the U.S.

Which trips and activities require a REAL ID gold star after May 7, 2025?

It applies to boarding domestic (U.S.) flights after May 7, 2025 and to entering a federal facility that checks ID or a military base.

What documents are required to get a REAL ID gold star?

Bring original documents or certified copies: proof of identity, proof of your social security number (SSN), and two proofs of residency showing your name and address. If your legal name changed, include documentation such as a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Sep 20, 2026

Uploaded by Mia