nj driver license domestic travel

MVC plans to open agencies to walk-in customers for limited transactions June 29. A list of those transactions will be released soon.

If your real id appointment was cancelled due to agency closure, keep your cancellation email. when we re-open, you can bring this email to any licensing center and get a real id without an appointment..

If your REAL ID Appointment was cancelled due to Agency closure from March 16, 2020 through March 29, 2020, keep your cancellation email . When we re-open, you can bring this email to your appointment agency anytime within 30 days and get a REAL ID without an appointment.

Starting May 7, 2025, you must have a REAL ID compliant driver license/ID to fly within the U.S., unless you use a U.S. passport or another federally approved form of identification.

Until the deadline, a Standard New Jersey driver license is valid for air travel within the U.S.

*Note: Enforcement date recently delayed by U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

What is REAL ID ?

REAL ID is the new federal requirement for state-issued driver licenses and non-driver IDs to help prevent fraudulent identification.

REAL ID in 90 seconds

Note: effective date changed to may 7, 2025.

Do I need a REAL ID ?

You are not required to get a REAL ID , however, starting May 7, 2025, if you typically use your driver 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 license can still be used for driving.

When can I get my REAL ID ?

You can get a REAL ID by appointment here

Sign up to be notified to make a REAL ID appointment

We have started issuing REAL ID driver licenses and non-driver IDs in select locations. Sign up here, and we’ll email you when REAL ID is available at an MVC location near you, including a link to get an appointment.

How do I get a REAL ID ?

• You can get a Real ID by appointment here

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a real id why do i need a real id is everyone required to get a real id , who should get a real id .

REAL ID s are best for those who typically use their driver license or non-driver ID (instead of a passport or other forms of ID) to fly within the U.S.

When will NJ have REAL ID ? When can I get my REAL ID ? When should I get my REAL ID ?

REAL ID is available at all Licensing Centers by appointment . Upgrade now, or when you are due for renewal

Can I change my current driver license or non-driver ID to a REAL ID ?

Yes. You can get a REAL ID driver license or non-driver ID prior to the expiration of your current driver license or ID by visiting any New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Agency.  There will be an $11.00 change fee.  If you wait until your current license/ID expires, you will pay only the regular renewal fee.  This REAL ID driver license or ID will expire upon your current expiration date.   YOU CAN GET A REAL ID IN ONLY ONE OF TWO WAYS: If your license or non-driver ID is expiring in less than three months, come into an agency currently offering REAL ID with all required documents between the 5th and the 20th of any month before it expires.  If your license or non-driver ID isn’t expiring yet , sign up at REALIDNJ.com to make an appointment.

"Skip the Trip"

We value your time! For services other than REAL ID , you may be able to "Skip the Trip" to the NJMVC altogether by taking advantage of the many services we offer online.

Check out our entire online offering HERE

Thank You for your Submission

You already selected some special options earlier in the Document Selector, so we've pre-selected their corresponding options in Step 3 for you:

• Unexpired standard photo driver license
• Bank/credit union statement or record (within the past 60 days)
• Social Security Card

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Meet your new ID. The one that's ready to fly.

Be your REAL ID self by May 7, 2025.

Countdown to REAL ID Enforcement

Are you real id ready.

On May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

Find out if you’re REAL ID ready with our interactive tool!

• Are you planning to fly domestically or visit a Federal facility after May 7, 2025?
• Does your Drivers License / ID have a star (and/or flag) or say "Enhanced"?

You're REAL ID ready! You will need this ID to board domestic flights and may need this or another acceptable form of identification to visit federal facilities.

• Do you have a passport?

A passport is an acceptable form of identification and may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities.

• Click here to see if you have one of these acceptable forms of identification that may also be used to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities (link will open in a new window). Do you have one of these?
• These alternate forms of identification may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID at the airport to board domestic flights and when visiting federal facilities.

You're not REAL ID ready! Important: if you want to board domestic flights or visit federal facilities beginning May 7, 2025 you must have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. Click on your state or territory in the map below to visit your local DMV to learn more.

You might not need a REAL ID. Click on your state or territory in the map below to visit your local DMV to learn more.

Map out your path to REAL ID readiness by May 7, 2025.

Click on your home state or territory to make a plan with your local DMV to be REAL ID ready.

Map Image Here

Select a state or territory:  -- Alabama Alaska American Samoa Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Guam Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Northern Mariana Islands Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Puerto Rico Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas U.S. Virgin Islands Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Deadline: May 7, 2025

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Travelers from New York, New Jersey will need REAL ID to fly domestically in 1 year

If you're a resident of New York or New Jersey and you've put off getting a REAL ID now is a good time to update your license.

Travelers flying out of either state will need a REAL ID to fly domestically in just one year.

The REAL ID Act of 2005 set a deadline of May 2023 for all travelers to upgrade to the federally approved driver's license.

"REAL ID is a coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards," Robert Duffy, TSA's Federal Security Director for LaGuardia Airport said.

Duffy said the improvements are to help TSA to prevent terrorists from using fake IDs.

A New Jersey REAL ID driver's license is identified with a small star in the upper right corner, while the New York ID has a star in a black circle in the same corner.

"Travelers are not required to get a state-issued REAL ID, however, starting May 2023, if you typically use your driver's license or non-driver ID to fly within the United States then you probably want a REAL ID," said Thomas Carter, TSA's Federal Security Director for New Jersey.

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In New Jersey, the REAL ID costs $35 while a standard-issue license is $24.

New York state residents have the option of getting a REAL ID or an enhanced ID.

The REAL ID is enough to fly domestically without a passport, but the enhanced ID can be used instead of a passport for travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries.

A REAL ID doesn't cost any more than a standard ID in New York, but those seeking an enhanced ID will pay an extra $30.

While it's not required for travelers to upgrade to a REAL ID if they don't have one they will need a passport or other federally approved ID to fly domestically.

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Real ID vs Driver's License: Gearing up for your next trip

So, you're planning a trip and wondering if your driver's license will cut the mustard?

Buckle up, because we're about to navigate the world of REAL ID and standard driver's licenses.

Real ID vs Driver License

While both driver's licenses and Real IDs allow you to hit the road within your state, a Real ID offers some extra perks . It follows stricter security standards and is considered a federally approved form of identification.

Think of a Real ID as a driver's license with superpowers. It can be used to board domestic flights within the U.S. and enter certain federal buildings like military bases.

How much does a Real ID cost in New Jersey?

The good news is, getting a Real ID in New Jersey typically doesn't break the bank compared to renewing a standard driver's license.

For most New Jersey drivers, a Real ID costs $35 while a standard driver's license costs $24. Both are valid for four years from issuance or renewal.

Can a Real ID replace your passport?

While Real IDs are great for domestic travel, they cannot replace a passport for international flights. Passports are still your go-to form of identification for venturing beyond US borders.

Is a Real ID required to fly domestically?

Currently, a Real ID is not mandatory for domestic flights. However, the deadline for states to comply with Real ID standards is May 7, 2025. After that date, a Real ID or another acceptable form of federal identification, like a passport, will be required to board domestic flights.

How to get a Real ID in New Jersey

Ready to get your Real ID in New Jersey? Make an appointment at your local Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) agency. Be prepared to show documents proving your identity, Social Security number and address. Luckily, the MVC website offers a handy document selector tool to help you gather the right paperwork before you head out. All appointments are booked via the scheduler on the  website .

What does a Real ID look like?

A Real ID closely resembles a standard driver's license, but with a key difference. Look for a star located in the upper right corner – that's your badge of Real ID approval.

With a Real ID in your wallet, you'll be ready to soar through domestic airports and access federal facilities with ease. Remember, the deadline for Real ID compliance is approaching, so plan accordingly for smooth travels.

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How to get a REAL ID and use it for travel

The REAL ID Act is a law that sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards (IDs).

Why upgrade your license to a REAL ID?

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you have not upgraded your driver’s license or state-issued ID to be REAL ID-compliant, you will not be able to use it to:

• Board federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Access federal government facilities or military installations
• Enter nuclear power plants

Visit the REAL ID website for more details and frequently asked questions.

Check to see if your license or state ID is already REAL ID-compliant

If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, it is already REAL-ID-compliant. There is nothing more you need to do.

How to get a REAL ID

When you apply for or renew your driver’s license or state identification card, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see what documentation you will need. Your new card will have the REAL ID star marking at the top right.

Do you need a REAL ID to fly?

If you do not upgrade your license or state ID, you can use a passport or one of these other acceptable forms of identification to fly . 

Can you still get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID?

You will still be able to get a driver's license or state ID card that is not REAL ID-compliant. But you will not be able to use it for air travel or to get into federal facilities or military installations. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see how to get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID.

LAST UPDATED: May 23, 2024

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

NJ Real ID: Everything You Need to Know

Summer is here, vacations are booked, and it feels like everyone we know is heading to the airport . Starting May 7th, 2025, you’ll need a new form of ID for domestic travel: a REAL ID. This new federal requirement for state-issued driver licenses and non-driver IDs primarily serves to prevent fraudulent identification. Unfortunately, you can’t simply order it online or by phone — you must go in person to request a REAL ID, but if you schedule an appointment now you should have plenty of time before the deadline.

Starting May 7th, 2025, passengers must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license/ID for domestic flights, unless using a U.S. passport or another federally approved form of identification. Until that date, a standard NJ driver’s license is still valid. Keep reading to find out if you need a REAL ID and what documents are required to get it.

Who Needs a Real ID

Not everyone is required to get a REAL ID , but if you typically use your state 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, passengers will need to use a valid U.S. passport or another federally approved form of identification. The standard NJ driver’s license can still be used for driving. Upgrade or renew your standard license/ID to a REAL ID by making an appointment here .

What to Bring: Get It Right the First Time

In order to qualify for a REAL ID , residents need to bring two (2) proofs of residential address , one (1) proof of social security number, and six (6) points of ID. Applicants can download a printable document selector checklist here . Every ID document must be original, unlaminated, or a certified copy in English marked with a state or municipal seal. If any of the documents don’t meet this requirement, or if any appear altered or false or are deemed invalid for any reason, applicants may be required to submit additional documentation. Submitting your Social Security number is required by state law.

Read More: Volunteering Opportunities in Hoboken + Jersey City | Summer 2023

If you have changed your name for marriage or otherwise, you may need more than a marriage certificate to verify your name change. You can double-check the details here .

Residential Address

• Valid NJ driver’s license/non-driver ID card
• Utility or credit card bill issued in the past 90 days
• Checking or savings account statement from a bank or credit union issued within the past 60 days
• Original, unexpired lease, or rental agreement
• Tax bill, statement or receipt, and/or any letter or correspondence received from the IRS or tax office within the past year
• First-class mail from any government agency in the past 6 months
• If under 18, a statement from a parent or guardian certifying the address of the applicant

Proof of Full Social Security Number

• Social Security card
• W-2 Form issue within the past year
• Pay Stub with name and full SSN
• 1099 Form issued within the past year

Applicants must select six points from primary and secondary documents:

• Unexpired US passport or passport card (4)
• US or US Territory birth certificate certified copy filed with a state office of vital statistics or equivalent agency in the individual’s state of birth (4)
• US Department of State birth certificate (4)
• US Department of State Consular Report of Birth Abroad (4)
• Certificate of Naturalization (4)
• Certificate of Citizenship (4)
• Current Permanent Resident Card issued by USCIS (4)
• Unexpired foreign passport with valid VISA and I-94 (2)
• Unexpired standard photo driver’s license from NJ or any state, or US Territory, and District of Columbia (1)
• Unexpired standard non-driver identification card from NJ only (1)
• Social Security card (1)
• Bank/credit union statement or record (within the past 60 days) (1)
• ATM/debit card with preprinted name and applicant’s signature (1)
• Current health insurance card or prescription card displaying applicant’s name (1)
• Current employee identification card with pay stub (1)
• State professional license (1)
• NJ public assistance card with photo (also known as an NJ Social Services identification card) (1)
• High school diploma, GED, or college degree (1)
• Property tax statement, bill, or receipt issued by an NJ municipality (1)
• For NJ high school graduates: a waiver certificate for the written portion of the driver’s test (1)
• Veteran Administration universal access photo identification card (1)
• Unexpired federal government employee driver license (1)
• Unexpired federal government employee photo identification card (1)
• US military discharge papers (Form DD-214) (2)
• FAA pilot license (2)
• US school photo identification card with transcript or school records (2)
• US college photo identification card with transcript (2)
• Legal name change court order signed by a judge or court clerk (3)
• Civil marriage or civil union certificate or divorce decree (3)
• US adoption papers (3)
• Current military dependent card (3)
• US military photo retiree card (3)
• NJ firearm purchaser card (3)
• Unexpired REAL ID driver’s license, non-driver identification card, or probationary license from any state, US territory, and the District of Columbia (4)

Applicants can schedule an appointment to get the REAL ID now or wait until it’s time to renew their license. There are four locations within the area that are taking appointments.

For more information, visit the NJ MVC website.

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Ainsley Layland

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NJ MVC is fully ready to help drivers obtain Real ID. Here's how

3-minute read.

Although the federal deadline to upgrade to Real ID is still more than two years away, New Jersey drivers can find appointments to do so now.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission has made more than 2,500 appointments available at agency locations throughout the state every weekday. More are posted every morning at 7 a.m., officials said.

On Friday morning, there were appointments available for Monday at all 24 of the licensing centers throughout the state. The agency also holds mobile unit events with community partners that have additional appointments.

How does it work?

Schedule an appointment: Drivers interested in obtaining a Real ID must make an appointment and visit a motor vehicle location to get the new license.

Proofs needed: Customers are encouraged to check REALID.nj.gov to make sure they bring all the required documents — two proofs of residential address, one verifiable Social Security number, and identity documents that add up to six Real ID Points — to their appointment.

Renewals: Renewing a Real ID can be done online.

Earlier: Real ID deadline pushed back another two years to May 2025

More: Get into NJ parks for free again. What other fee waivers are in Murphy's proposed budget?

When is the deadline?

Federal deadline: Real ID is a federal program, and the Department of Homeland Security has pushed back the deadline to upgrade a few times. It currently stands at May 2025.

In New Jersey: The state started issuing the Real ID in September 2019. The deadline was initially October 2020 but was pushed back one year to October 2021 due to the pandemic. The federal government opted to push it back again to May 2023, as new COVID-19 variants continued to wreak havoc on motor vehicle agencies throughout the country. Last year, officials delayed it a third time, to May 2025.

What does it cost?

Price tag: The Real ID costs $35, which is $11 more than a standard New Jersey license or ID, but not all Real ID charges are the same.

Expirations: Drivers who make an appointment for within three months of the expiration date on their current license pay $35, and their Real ID will be good for four years.

Other options: For drivers who don’t have a license expiring anytime soon but still want the upgrade, the fee is $11 and their new license will have the same expiration date as the old one.

Fee waiver: Because of the fee holiday built into last year’s budget for license renewals, drivers with licenses expiring before Sept. 30 will be charged only the $11 upgrade fee. The $24 renewal fee will be waived consistent with the fee holiday.

Why does this matter?

Air travel: After the deadline, standard driver's licenses or non-driver identification cards can no longer be used to fly within the U.S. A passport is also a valid form of identification for domestic travel.

Fraud: The program is a new federal requirement to help prevent fraudulent identification.

Is Real ID mandatory?

State vs. federal: You are not required to get Real ID. A standard driver's license or non-driver identification card can still be used to drive in New Jersey, but it will no longer be a valid form of federal identification.

What does 'not for Real ID purposes' mean on a license?

Need-to-know: If your license says "Not for 'Real ID' purposes, it means you have a standard driver's license. That license can be used for driving in New Jersey, but will not be a valid form of federal identification and cannot be used to fly within the country.

Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse.

Email:  [email protected]

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Residents of New Jersey will need a REAL ID to board an airplane starting October 2020

TRENTON — New Jersey residents who want to board a domestic flight will soon need a star on their driver’s license, indicating that it is a REAL ID credential or they will need another form of approved identification to board their flight or enter a secure federal facility. New Jersey’s REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards have a small star in the upper right corner to indicate that it meets federal regulations that establish minimum security standards.

The upgraded REAL ID s will be required starting October 1, 2020 and the one-year countdown is on!

New Jersey residents have the option to upgrade to a REAL ID if their license does not currently have the star or stick with an older standard driver’s license. However, a standard credential—without the star—will not be valid to board a domestic flight or to access secure federal facilities, including military bases and some federal offices.

To get the REAL ID-compliant license, individuals will need to visit their local New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission office in person by signing up for an appointment and bring certain documents to prove U.S. citizenship and New Jersey residency. Required documents include one proof of identity, one proof of legal presence, two proofs of New Jersey residency, your social security card and a current driver’s license if you are applying to exchange one issued by another U.S. state.

New Jersey residents can sign up to be notified to make a REAL ID appointment. The Motor Vehicle Commission will email residents when REAL ID is available at a location near where they live, including a link to get an appointment.

Transportation Security Administration officers who staff the ticket document checking station at airports will not allow travelers into the checkpoint without a REAL ID license or another form of acceptable ID after October 1, 2020, because of a federal law (The REAL ID Act of 2005) that mandates that a REAL ID is needed for federal purposes. REAL ID is a coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards. The improvements are intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.

TSA has posted new signs at airports nationwide to remind people that REAL ID-compliant licenses or other acceptable forms of ID, such as a valid passport, federal government PIV card or U.S. military ID, will be mandatory for air travel beginning on October 1, 2020. Critically important, on October 1, 2020, individuals who are unable to verify their identity will not be permitted to enter the TSA checkpoint and will not be allowed to fly. TSA officers will be providing verbal advisements to passengers to remind them about REAL ID.

For more information and details about how to obtain a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card in New Jersey, visit the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s REAL ID web site .

TSA also has a one-minute video that provides information about flying with a REAL ID.

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Real id guide for nj: do this before oct. 1, 2020 (updated), you have to do what with your nj driver's license here's who needs to get a real id by oct. 1, 2020, and what you'll need to obtain one..

Tom Davis , Patch Staff

NEW JERSEY — If you're a New Jersey resident, you need to soon get a "REAL ID" if you plan to fly anywhere in the U.S. on or after Oct. 1, 2020 – even though the state is among a handful that still doesn't offer one yet.

That's the day TSA will stop accepting your standard driver's license or ID card as identification to board domestic flights, military base entry, or entry to secure federal facilities, according to New Jersey officials. Instead, you'll need your REAL ID to do those things.

A REAL ID doesn't look much different from a standard state ID. However, in order to receive one, you'll have to go to the motor vehicle agency and prove your identity, bringing two proofs of address, your lawful presence in the country and proof of your Social Security number.

Find out what's happening in Point Pleasant with free, real-time updates from Patch.

But.... here are some very important points that New Jerseyans need to know:

• Doing this gets you special star icon on your license, which means it’s REAL ID compliant.
• The federal government requires a REAL ID for better security at airports and federal facilities.

People who need a REAL ID:

• Do not have a valid U.S. passport or passport card; AND
• Use airplanes as a mode of domestic transportation; or
• Visit military bases; or
• Visit secure federal facilities.

Here's what else you should know:

• Effective October 1, 2020 , individuals will not be able to fly commercially or enter certain federal facilities with a driver license or ID that is not “REAL ID” compliant. However, they may use a passport or military ID.
• UNTIL THAT DATE, New Jersey driver licenses or ID cards are valid for domestic air travel .
• One of the enforcement provisions of the 2005 “REAL ID” law provides that states must show their progress to the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on a quarterly basis, and each year must demonstrate satisfactory progress to be granted an extension to the following year or be placed in “non-compliant status.”

The MVC is planning a number of steps to reduce the massive wait-times and blocks-long lines that some other states have experienced when they’ve begun their REAL ID programs.

• The only way to get the REAL ID right now is by appointment.
• You need to make an appointment by going to https://www.realidnj.com and filling out a short form.
• You will get an email asking if you want to participate in the testing at the eight agencies after you sign up.
• Once the MVC determines that the REAL ID works at an agency, that agency will offer it to anybody.
• Obtaining a REAL ID at an agency should take about 20 minutes.
• To get a REAL ID, you need to bring two proofs of residential address, one proof of your Social Security number and six points of ID.

• There will be an $11 fee associated with changing your standard NJ driver's license or non-driver ID to a REAL ID if not done at renewal.
• You will eventually get a REAL ID driver's license or non-driver ID prior to the expiration of your current driver's license or ID by visiting any New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Agency. This REAL ID driver's license or ID will expire upon your current expiration date.
• You are not required to get a REAL ID. However, starting Oct. 1, 2020, if you typically use your driver's license or non-driver ID (instead of a passport or other form of ID) to fly domestically, you probably want a REAL ID. Otherwise, you will need to use other acceptable identification such as a valid U.S. passport or military ID. The standard New Jersey driver's license can still be used for driving.
• 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 domestically.
• If your current driver's license or non-driver ID expires after Sept. 30, 2020, you can wait until renewal time. After that date, you'll need to use a passport or another form of acceptable identification for domestic air travel if you haven’t changed to a REAL ID driver license or ID.
• It is a federal requirement for security purposes that MVC scan the documents and keep them securely stored in an encrypted format.
• Your identification documents will be verified and, under certain circumstances, shared with the federal government. You can find out more by visiting the website https://www.realidnj.com .
• The MVC recommends you visit the agency during the middle of the month to potentially reduce your waiting time.
• The MVC will be adding more online services so drivers don’t have to visit an agency for certain transactions, such as renewing a standard driver's license or non-driver ID. So check the website to see if you can skip the trip to the MVC.
• The MVC is increasing staffing so it can serve people more quickly if you have to come to the agency in person. If you are getting a REAL ID for the first time, you will have to visit an MVC agency.

The MVC will make more transactions available online. In the meantime, you will be able to renew your registration, get a duplicate registration, or renew your standard (non-REAL-ID license) from an easy-to-use online portal – even from your mobile phone.

• The MVC will update its website so that you can easily learn what you need to know, including
• Whether you need to go to an MVC agency at all, or can process your transaction online
• What documents you should bring to MVC for your new “6 points” of ID
• Which agencies have the shortest wait times so you can plan your trip
• The MVC promises to improve the service in brick-and-mortar agencies so that your trip is quicker and easier.

The REAL ID law was passed by Congress in 2005 as a way to establish minimum security standards for state-issued IDs. The deadline was set by the Trump administration after the law was opposed by states under George W. Bush and not enforced under Barack Obama.

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Big changes coming to New Jersey driver’s licenses

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⭕ NJ moves closer to doing away with physical driver's licenses

⭕ legislation would direct the mvc to create digital licenses you can keep on your phone, ⭕ several states have already made the change.

New Jersey is a step closer to doing away with physical driver's licenses and allowing residents to keep their credentials on their phones.

The Senate Transportation Committee advanced a measure (S1297) this week that directs the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to create mobile driver's licenses.

The bill sponsors, Sens. Patrick Deignan (D-Middlesex) and Nellie Pou (D-Passaic) argue the mobile licenses will be completely secure and will bring New Jersey "into the 21st century."

The NJMVC has been moving toward offering more digital options for customers. In March, they began offering a mobile version of your vehicle registration.

New Jersey already accepts mobile versions of insurance ID cards as valid proof of insurance during a traffic stop.

A digital driver's license would be as valid as a physical license when asked to produce your ID by a law enforcement officer.

Other States already offer mobile licenses

According to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, 11 states currently offer a digital license option.

They are: Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri and Utah.

Maryland was among the first to offer a digital driver's license and in 2023 introduced technology to load the licenses into Google and Apple wallet apps.

Officials say the digital licenses offer a greater degree is privacy, allowing users to share only requested information while hiding other data contained on the license.

Will a digital license be valid for air travel?

It already is accepted at more than two dozen airports, including John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia Airports in New York City.

Newark Liberty international Airport does not yet accept digital driver's licenses as proof of ID.

How will it work?

According to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, secure versions of a driver's license are uploaded to your phone in real time. This can reflect any change in status of your driving privileges or any other changes to status.

During a traffic stop, a police officer would scan the license and receive the information to his scanning device.

At an airport, similar scanners would be used at TSA checkpoints to verify your identity.

Merchants could also purchase scanners to, for example, verify your age when purchasing alcohol.

When will they be available in New Jersey?

Not any time soon.

The legislation still needs to be approved by the full senate and assembly and signed by Gov. Phil Murphy.

If that happens, the NJMVC will be given 72 months to develop the technology before implementing a new digital driver's license.

Even if New Jersey offers digital driver's licenses, physical licenses would still be available.

New Jersey's license plate designs through the years

Gallery Credit: Joe Votruba

Most annoying things about driving with a Jersey driver

Gallery Credit: Steve Trevelise

9 times cars crashed through perfectly stationary buildings in NJ

Gallery Credit: Jeff Deminski

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Here’s what happens if the name on your Real ID does not match your boarding pass

• Updated: Feb. 16, 2024, 3:01 p.m. |
• Published: Feb. 15, 2024, 8:00 a.m.

• Larry Higgs | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Many changes have been made to driver’s licenses as the May 7, 2025 deadline approaches to get a Real ID that can be used for identification at airports for domestic air travel.

As the deadline gets closer, a sharp-eyed reader of NJ.com content noticed a potential glitch between his Real ID and boarding pass. The suffix in his last name was different on each of the two documents.

For those who have Roman numerals as a suffix, the Real ID has the Roman numeral appear as an ordinal number, so John Smith III becomes John Smith 3rd.

His question was simple: what happens when that traveler presents a boarding pass with John Smith III and a Real ID License with John Smith 3rd to a TSA officer who’s checking documents? The reader’s concern is that a mismatch could prevent him from flying domestically.

We asked the TSA.

Name anomalies on ID credentials and data inaccuracies on boarding passes are routinely resolved by the many security procedures involved in TSA’s ID verification process, and by TSA security officers who check documents at the airport, officials said.

If the Real ID says John Jones III and boarding pass says John Jones 3rd, the machine an officer uses to check documents will show a partial match where the security officer would make the determination, said Dave Fitz, a TSA spokesperson.

“TSOs (security officers) are able to make a determination given the documents provided by the airline passenger on whether additional ID verification steps are required,” he said.

The TSA also spells out what is supposed to happen with suffixes on its webpage about acceptable forms of identification.

“TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes,” according to that guidance. “If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation.”

While the deadline to obtain a Real ID has been extended three times by Homeland Security, officials caution travelers not to procrastinate in anticipation of another extension because one is unlikely to come four years after the COVID-19 pandemic that slowed the process.

New Jersey’s Motor Vehicle Commission issues Real ID licenses at agencies and an appointment is required for the in-person transaction. That’s because obtaining a Real ID requires the presentation of documents to prove identify, residency and citizenship. The MVC has an online document selector to help customers select the correct documents.

If drivers chose not to get a Real ID, they can still use a passport to prove their identity for domestic air travel. Travelers can visit REALID.nj.gov to learn more about Real ID and decide if they need one, MVC officials said.

Stories by Larry Higgs

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Larry Higgs may be reached at [email protected] . Follow him on X @CommutingLarry

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