Texas REAL ID
Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver license with a gold star, a valid passport, or U.S. military ID to travel by air in the U.S. Learn more about REAL ID requirements and how to get one.
REAL ID Overview
The REAL ID Act establishes minimum standards for state-issued driver licenses and identification cards. Under this legislation, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card to access federal facilities and fly in the U.S.
REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs
Your current Texas driver license or ID is REAL ID-compliant if it has a gold star in the top right corner.
If it doesn’t have a gold star, you’ll get the gold star on your next renewal or request a replacement card.
Getting a Texas REAL ID
You can apply for a new REAL ID-compliant Texas driver license or ID in-person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You may be eligible to renew your existing Texas driver license or ID online.
You can still use your current, unexpired Texas driver license or ID to drive and for non-federal ID purposes. When it’s time to renew your driver license or ID, you’ll get one that is REAL ID-compliant.
REAL ID Document Checklist
To get a REAL-ID compliant Texas driver license or ID, you need:
- An original or certified copy of a Birth Certificate or an unexpired U.S. Passport Book or Card
- Social Security Card
- Current Texas Vehicle Registration or Title
- Current Car Insurance Policy or Car Insurance Statement
- If your name changed, legal documents showing proof of name change from your birth name