What Is A REAL ID? Can Green Card Holders Get One?
By Alena Shautsova, New York Immigration Lawyer
If you're preparing to board a domestic flight or access certain federal facilities in the United States, you've probably heard about something called a REAL ID. But what is it exactly? Does a green card count as a REAL ID? And who can actually receive one?
As a trusted New York Immigration lawyer, I help immigrants and permanent residents understand the documentation they need to comply with U.S. regulations. In this blog, I’ll explain everything you need to know about the REAL ID Act, how it affects immigrants, and what you need to obtain one.
What Is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced security standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005, a federal law passed in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations for secure identity verification.
Starting May 7, 2025, individuals must present a REAL ID (or a federally approved alternative, like a passport) to:
- Board domestic flights within the United States
- Enter federal buildings, including immigration courts
- Access military bases and nuclear facilities
You can tell if your ID is REAL ID-compliant by looking for a star (usually gold or black) on the top right-hand corner of the card.
Is a Green Card a REAL ID?
A green card is a REAL ID-compliant document, along with the following documents:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID
- US or foreign passport or passport card
- HSPD-12—PIV Card
- Permanent Resident Card
- School or University ID (if under 18)
- DHS Trusted Traveler Card
- US Department of Defense ID
- Border Crossing Card
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
- Federally recognized Tribal-issued photo ID
- Canadian Provincial DL / Indian NACC
- Transportation Worker ID Credential
- Employment Authorization Document (I-766)
- US Merchant Mariner Credential
For more information, visit: REAL ID Compliant Documents (PDF)
Green card holders can still board flights or enter federal buildings using their green card, a passport, or another DHS-approved ID—but it’s wise to obtain a REAL ID-compliant state ID or driver’s license if you plan to travel frequently within the U.S.
Tip from a USA Immigration Lawyer: If you're a permanent resident, combining a REAL ID with your green card ensures smoother travel and identification across federal checkpoints.
Who Can Get a REAL ID?
Not everyone is eligible for a REAL ID—but many immigrants and non-citizens can obtain one, provided they have the correct documentation.
- U.S. Citizens
- U.S. passport or birth certificate
- Social Security number
- Two documents proving state residency
- Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)
- Valid green card (Form I-551)
- Social Security number or ineligibility letter
- Proof of address in your state
- Other Eligible Non-Citizens
- Asylees and refugees
- Individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- Students (F-1) and exchange visitors (J-1)
- Employment visa holders (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)
- DACA recipients (depending on state policies)
Important: Eligibility and document requirements vary by state, so be sure to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office.
What Documents Do You Need to Get a REAL ID?
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, you typically must present the following:
- Proof of identity and legal presence: U.S. passport, green card, or unexpired visa with I-94
- Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with full SSN
- Two proofs of state residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement
Some states may also require proof of lawful status duration, especially for individuals with temporary visas.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a REAL ID?
In general, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for REAL IDs because they cannot show lawful status under federal guidelines. However, some states issue standard driver’s licenses to undocumented residents for driving purposes, though these are not REAL ID-compliant and cannot be used for federal identification.
What If You Don’t Have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025?
Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.
- Driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. - State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID (including for dependents)
- Permanent Resident Card
- Border Crossing Card
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian Affairs card
- Transportation Worker ID Credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
REAL ID for Green Card Holders: Why You Should Consider Getting One
Even though a green card allows re-entry to the U.S. and serves as federal identification, having a REAL ID driver’s license or state ID provides added convenience and security when:
- Checking in at airports
- Accessing government facilities
- Proving your identity to state agencies and employers
It’s especially useful if your green card is expired or undergoing renewal, as the REAL ID can supplement your identification.
Final Thoughts: Do You Need a REAL ID?
Yes—if you want to board domestic flights or enter secure federal locations without hassle, a REAL ID is a must-have after May 7, 2025.
While your green card is not a REAL ID, green card holders can and should apply for one to make domestic travel and identification easier.
Need help proving your immigration status or preparing documents to apply for a REAL ID?
Reach out to a New York Immigration lawyer who can help you understand your rights and navigate both immigration and identity documentation with confidence.
Visit: www.shautsova.com
Email: office@shautsova.com
Phone: 917-885-2261
Based in New York – Serving clients across the United States