Real ID Frequently Asked Questions

What is Real ID?

A Federal Act established by congress as a fraud protection and security measure for each citizen. More information is available at www.dhs.gov/real-id-public-faqs

Why do I need Real ID?

Beginning May 7, 2025, in order to board a plane or enter a military base or facility using your driver’s license or identification card, you must have the REAL ID indicator on your credential. If not you may use another form of acceptable documentation such as a valid passport or military ID.

What do I need to bring to get a REAL ID compliant card?

Original specific documentation to verify their full legal name, social security number and proof of legal presence in the US. NOTE: If your name is not the same on all your documents, you will need to provide the document(s) proving your legal name change. (https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/de56a.pdf)

Will I have to provide these documents every time I come in for a renewal?

No, this is a one-time revalidation.

Do I have to pay extra for my Real ID indicator?

No. Only normal ID and driver's license fees apply.

What if I already renewed my driver's license before 08/01/17 and didn’t get the Real ID indicator?

You can come into the Division of Vehicles at any time, with your required document, and obtain an ID or driver's license with the Real ID indicator for normal driver's license and ID fees. https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/dmvlicfees.pdf

Can I use a photo copy of any of my required documents to be REAL ID compliant?

No, they must be originals or certified copies. No laminated documents will be accepted.

Can I use a laminated social security card to verify my social security number?

No. See this link for more information - https://faq.ssa.gov/en-us/Topic/article/KA-02202

Can a notarized photocopy of my documents be used instead of a certified copy?

No.

What if my married name is on my drivers license and social security card but my maiden name is on my birth certificate?

If your name is not the same on all your documents, you will need to provide the document proving your legal name change.

What documents can I provide to prove legal name change?

Government issued marriage certificate, divorce decree — name restored as, court order of adoption, or court order of legal name change. More information here - https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/de56a.pdf.

If I have been married multiple times, do I have to present every marriage license and divorce decree?

No, just the most recent one.

Where can I obtain a certified copy of my marriage license?

Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Vital Statistics at the Curtis Building, 1000 SW Jackson, Topeka, KS 66612 or http://www.kdheks.gov/vital/marriage.html.

Where can I obtain a certified copy of my divorce certificate?

Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Vital Statistics at the Curtis Building, 1000 SW Jackson, Topeka, KS 66612 or http://www.kdheks.gov/vital/divorce.html.

What original documents will verify my social security number*?

Legible social security card with your current full name (NOT LAMINATED)
Current W-2 or 1099
Current pay stub with social security number

*NOTE: A social security number is not necessary for temporary driver's license applicants with non-work status.

How do I apply for a new or replacement social security number card?

https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/Topic/article/KA-02017

Where is my local social security office?

https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp#officeResults

Where can I obtain a certified copy of my birth certificate with the raised seal or stamp?

Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Vital Statistics at the Curtis Building, 1000 SW Jackson, Topeka, KS 66612 or http://www.kdheks.gov/vital/birth.html.

Can I board a plane currently with my valid driver's license or ID now no matter what it says?

Yes, the REAL ID Act effective date is not until May 7, 2025. A driver's license or ID that is the old format that has no REAL ID indicator, or has the star cutout or has the “NOT FOR FEDERAL ID” language may still board a plane currently.

Will my REAL ID driver’s license or ID replace a US Passport?

No.

What will happen after May , 2025?

Every traveler will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or ID, or another acceptable form of identification to board an airplane or enter a designated federal facility within the United States.

Do I have to board a plane with a driver’s license or ID or can I use another form of ID?

Here are the list of other acceptable documents for travel other than your state issued driver's license or ID, from https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification:

U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. military ID (active duty or retired military and their dependents, and DoD civilians)
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
DHS-designated enhanced driver's license
Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
HSPD-12 PIV card
Foreign government-issued passport
Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
Transportation worker identification credential
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I- 766)
U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

TSA : (855) 347-8371

Will minors need to have driver’s licenses to fly domestically?

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the United States. The companion will need acceptable identification.

What does the star cutout in the upper right corner of my new driver's license or ID mean?

This symbol indicates the card meets the REAL ID Act requirements effective May 7, 2025 at airports and other designated federal facilities/uses nationwide.

What does “NOT FOR FEDERAL ID” mean printed in the top right corner of my driver’s license or ID?

This statement indicates that the card is not able to be used effective May 7, 2025 at airports and other designated federal facilities/uses nationwide.

If my driver’s license or ID has the “NOT FOR FEDERAL ID” language on it, will it still work at convenience stores, liquor stores or restaurants?

Yes, this has not changed.

If I provided some of my documents today, would I have to bring them back again along with the additional documents needed for the REAL ID indicator?

Yes.

Why does my concealed carry license not have a REAL ID indicator on it?

A concealed carry license is not an acceptable form of identification for travel.

Why does my temporary driver’s license receipt not have a REAL ID indicator on it?

A temporary driver’s license printed on thermal paper is not an acceptable form of identification.

Does REAL ID compliance have an age limit?

No.

If I already have a REAL ID compliant license from another state and I am surrendering that ID for a Kansas one will I have to show all the required documents again?

Yes.