On May 7, 2025, new federal rules kicked in that might impact your travel plans. To board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings – like courthouses, military bases or prisons – you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card. This article will walk you through how to check your REAL ID status, what documents you’ll need to bring if you’re not REAL ID-compliant, and how Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS) can help with your essential paperwork.
How to Check if You Must Submit Documents for REAL ID
Wondering if you’re good to go with your REAL ID? Checking your status is quick and easy. Just head over to Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration’s (MVA) REAL ID website at https://mva.maryland.gov/Pages/realid.aspx and enter your driver’s license or ID card number to find out if you’re already REAL ID-compliant or if you still need to submit documents.
If you prefer to speak with someone, you can call MVA directly at 410-768-7000 for assistance.
The Maryland MVA does not have a process where customers can scan and upload REAL ID documents to its website. Therefore, you must bring your documents in person to a MVA branch.
The MVA typically reaches out via email or U.S. mail if they need something from you. But if your contact information isn’t up to date, you might not hear from them until it’s too late – like when you’re at the airport trying to board a flight. If your ID card or driver’s license doesn’t show a star in the top right corner, it’s not REAL ID-compliant.
Also, be aware of scams that aim to steal your personal information. The MVA will never call to ask for your Social Security number. If you’re ever unsure, always confirm your REAL ID status directly through the MVA website at https://mva.maryland.gov/Pages/realid.aspx or by calling 410-768-7000.
What Documents Do You Need for a REAL ID?
If you find you still need to submit documents, don’t worry. Just visit your local MVA branch with the following:
- One document to prove your age and identity
Examples: A valid U.S. passport or birth certificate
- One document to prove your Social Security number
Examples: Your Social Security card or a W-2 or 1099 form
- Two documents to prove you live in Maryland
Examples: Utility bills, bank statements or a lease agreement with your name and current Maryland address
A full list of acceptable documents can be found in the MVA’s Online Document Guide at https://mymva.maryland.gov/TAP/IND/_/.
What If You’re Missing the Required Documents?
If you’ve lost your birth certificate, Social Security card or other key documents, help is available. MVLS offers free legal assistance for issues like legal name changes, birth certificate corrections and other document challenges that can delay your REAL ID approval.
These situations are more common than you might think. For example, older adults sometimes arrive at the MVA with a birth registration instead of an official birth certificate, which is not an acceptable form of identification. Others who’ve changed their names due to marriage or divorce may need to provide additional court documents to prove these changes. It’s also common for people to find mismatches between the names listed on their birth certificate, Social Security card and driver’s license – which can require a legal name change through the courts to ensure that all documents match correctly.
While it can feel overwhelming, taking the first step is easier than you think. If you’re unsure about your REAL ID status, start by calling the MVA at 410-768-7000. If your records don’t match or you’re missing documents, reach out to MVLS to see if you qualify for free legal help. Visit mvlslaw.org or call MVLS’ client intake line at 410-547-6537, Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
For full details on Maryland’s REAL ID requirements, visit the MVA’s official page at https://mva.maryland.gov/Pages/realid.aspx.
Chandler Walters is the outreach and communications manager for Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service.