The Massachusetts government is changing the ID required to travel to and from the state. Starting from October 1, 2020, you will be required to present a REAL ID or a passport to fly within the United States or enter federal buildings.
Whether you are getting new IDs or renewing your existing credentials, you will have to choose between the standard driver’s license or a REAL ID. The cost to obtain a REAL ID or a standard driver’s license is the same.
A standard driver’s license is a valid identification card which can be renewed online without going to the RMV. The card has “NOT FOR FEDERAL ID” displayed on the front. It can not be used as a valid form of Federal ID and will not be an acceptable form of identification to board flights after October 1, 2020.
What you need to travel is about to change. What you need to travel is about to change. Get your Real ID by October 2020. Learn more: https://t.co/92RCMafopu pic.twitter.com/tkW2MfeVKW
— Boston Logan Airport (@BostonLogan) February 6, 2020
A REAL ID can also be used as a valid identification card. It requires an in-person visit for renewal and is a valid form of Federal ID. This card has a star displayed on the front to indicate that it is federally compliant.
To save time on your application, you can start any driver’s license or ID transaction online. At the end of your application, you will get a summary and a list of documents you will need to bring to the service center. The RMV’s online center will inform you of the documents required for you to complete your application, help you check your eligibility, and save your time by concluding the application on one successful trip.
Once you have decided if you want a REAL ID or a standard driver’s license, you will have to get the right documents together. You will have to prove your US citizenship or lawful presence, Social security number, and your Massachusetts residency.
For US citizens, a valid, unexpired US passport is sufficient proof of lawful presence. For permanent residents, a valid permanent resident card (green card) is enough. Non-US citizens would be needed to produce correct, valid immigration documents along with proof that they have been granted a legal stay in the US for at least 12 months.
