With the May 7 REAL ID federal enforcement deadline fast approaching, Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles officials recently joined Transportation Security Administration officials at Washington Dulles International Airport to remind Virginians to avoid the last-minute rush and apply for a REAL ID before the deadline.
Demand for REAL ID is on the rise in Virginia. In March alone, the Virginia DMV issued more than 104,000 REAL IDs, bringing the total number of REAL ID-compliant credentials issued since October 2018 to more than 4.1 million —representing 59% of all active Virginia driver’s licenses and IDs as of March 2025.
While REAL ID is a choice for Virginians, beginning May 7, people who plan to fly domestically or enter federal facilities — including courthouses and military bases — must present a REAL ID-compliant credential or another federally accepted document, such as a U.S. passport or military ID. A star on the top right corner of a Virginia driver’s license or ID indicates REAL ID compliance.
“Time is ticking, and the Virginia DMV is ready to serve you,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey. “We recommend starting your REAL ID application online. You can easily check the required documents ahead of time and make an appointment to reserve your spot, making the whole process faster and more convenient.”
With 76 DMV CSCs statewide, appointment availability in April and May varies by location. Despite the increased demand for REAL ID, the DMV has maintained efficient wait times with a statewide average wait time of 16.2 minutes in March. Customers with an appointment waited an average of 8.4 minutes, while walk-ins waited an average of 17.2 minutes.
To ensure a smooth experience at the DMV, Virginians are strongly encouraged to: Start their application online to confirm thye have the correct documents.
Schedule an appointment for faster service.
Bring the required fees – a Virginia REAL ID costs a one-time $10 fee in addition to the driver’s license or ID card fee.
For more information and to begin the REAL ID application process, visit www.dmv.virginia.gov/ licenses-ids/real-id.
