Rhode Island REAL ID Deadline Approaches

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Residents gather at the DMV to apply for their Rhode Island REAL ID before the impending deadline.

News Summary

Residents of Rhode Island have only two weeks until the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID on May 7, 2025. The state mandates that individuals aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID or other TSA-approved identification to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. As of April 1, about 58% of residents comply, but a surge in appointment requests is expected as the deadline nears. The fee for obtaining a REAL ID is $27.50, and processing can take up to four weeks.

Providence, Rhode Island — The deadline for obtaining a Rhode Island REAL ID is rapidly approaching, with only two weeks left until the cutoff on May 7, 2025. Starting on that date, all residents aged 18 and older will be required to present a REAL ID or other TSA-accepted identification to board domestic flights or enter numerous federal buildings. This change will impact travelers and visitors alike as the state works to ensure compliance with federal identification requirements.

As of April 1, approximately 58% of residents in Rhode Island have already complied with the REAL ID mandates. However, with the deadline drawing near, it is anticipated that the demand for REAL ID appointments will significantly increase, potentially leading to longer wait times at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The Department of Homeland Security has previously extended the REAL ID deadline several times, with the latest extension occurring in late 2022, which pushed the implementation date from 2023 to 2025. Currently, only around 56% of U.S. citizens possess REAL ID-compliant licenses and identification as of January 2024.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID can be identified by a star located in the upper right-hand corner of the identification card. If an individual’s Rhode Island driver’s license already features this star, they have a REAL ID and do not need to take further action before the deadline.

How to Apply for a REAL ID

Residents wishing to obtain a REAL ID must do so in person at a Rhode Island driver’s licensing station. To apply, they will need to present various forms of documentation, including:

Proof of legal name
Date of birth
Social Security number
Two proofs of residency

Acceptable forms of proof for residency can include utility bills, tax bills, bank statements, or other specified documents. Although the online application process can be initiated, the final completion will likely require an in-person visit to the DMV.

Important Considerations

It is important to note that individuals not planning to travel domestically or visit federal offices will not require a REAL ID. Furthermore, obtaining a REAL ID is not mandatory for applying for a driver’s license in Rhode Island. For children under the age of 18, there is no requirement to present ID when flying domestically as long as they are accompanied by an adult who has acceptable identification.

The REAL ID should not be confused with a passport, as it does not serve for international travel. Additionally, it does not impact voting rights or access to federal benefits.

Fees and Processing Times

The fee for obtaining a REAL ID is $27.50 if not processed during a regular renewal time. Applicants whose names have changed will need to provide official documents, such as a marriage license or divorce decree, at the time of application. The processing time for receiving a REAL ID can take up to four weeks, with the hard credential being sent through the mail.

Further Information

Residents seeking more details about obtaining a REAL ID can consult the Rhode Island DMV’s website for a complete checklist and application instructions. It is advised that individuals plan ahead to ensure they meet the upcoming deadline without unnecessary delays.