What You Need to Know About Iowa REAL ID

The REAL ID is a federally compliant driver’s license or identification card that meets the security standards established by the REAL ID Act. In Iowa, residents will need a REAL ID to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings starting May 7, 2025. If your Iowa driver’s license or ID does not have a star in the upper right corner, it is not a REAL ID.

Do You Need a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is optional, but you will need one if you plan to:

• Board commercial flights within the U.S.
• Enter secure federal facilities (like military bases or federal courthouses)

You can still use a valid U.S. passport or other federally approved ID in place of a REAL ID.

How to Get a REAL ID in Iowa

To obtain a REAL ID in Iowa, you must apply in person at a driver's license issuance location. You can upgrade your current license during renewal or apply for a duplicate with the REAL ID marking.

Required Documents

You must bring the following original documents:

1. Proof of identity and date of birth
   Acceptable documents: Valid U.S. passport or a certified birth certificate

2. Proof of Social Security number
   Acceptable documents: Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub with full SSN

3. Two documents proving Iowa residency
   Acceptable documents: Utility bills, bank statements, rental or mortgage agreements

4. Proof of name change (if applicable)
   Acceptable documents: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order

All documents must be unexpired and in their original form—photocopies are not accepted.

Where to Apply

You can apply at any Iowa driver’s license issuance location. It’s highly recommended to schedule an appointment in advance to reduce wait times. Be sure to check which services are available at your chosen location using the DMV services overview.

Costs Associated with REAL ID

There is no additional fee for the REAL ID itself. However, standard fees for renewing or duplicating your license will apply. For more information, review the Iowa DMV fees overview.

Renewing and Replacing a REAL ID

If your REAL ID is lost, stolen, or needs renewal, you can do so using the same process as a standard license, but you must still present original documentation. Learn more about replacing a lost license and renewing your Iowa driver's license.

When is the Deadline?

The federal enforcement date is May 7, 2025. After that, a standard license will no longer be accepted for domestic flights or access to federal facilities unless accompanied by another compliant form of identification.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Iowa DOT REAL ID page or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security REAL ID website.