Dec 16, 2024, 6:15 PM CST
MADISON, Wis (Civic Media) – This will be the last Christmas under the old travel ID system. The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is encouraging travelers to update their driver licenses and ID cards to meet the new federal REAL ID requirements. Starting May 7, 2025, regular Wisconsin driver licenses and ID cards will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel, entry into federal buildings, or access to military bases.
Under the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, travelers will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or state ID card, or another identification such as a passport. Wisconsin has been issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses and ID cards since January 14, 2013
“Those who want the REAL ID designation should start now,” says Tommy Winkler, WisDOT DMV Administrator. “Visit wisconsindmv.gov/REALID to learn about the required documents, start the application online, and make an appointment for service to make your trip as quick and convenient as possible.”
To get a REAL ID-compliant card, people must visit a Wisconsin DMV. You have to bring original documents or certified copies, including proof of name and date of birth, legal presence in the U.S., identity, name change (if applicable), Social Security number, and address.
The cost for a REAL ID-compliant card is $14 for a driver license or $16 for an ID card, with no additional fee if the upgrade is done during renewal.
Travelers can also use other forms of ID accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which are listed on TSA.gov/REAL-ID. With over 3 million REAL ID-compliant cards already issued in Wisconsin, the DMV is urging residents to act now to avoid any travel disruptions next year.
