The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) now offers REAL ID, a federally-compliant form of identification that will be required for domestic air travel and entering federal buildings beginning May 7, 2025.
For seniors considering the switch, the answer if seniors need it is “it depends”.
While not mandatory for driving, REAL ID will be necessary for flying domestically if you don’t have a passport. Passports will be accepted as valid ID when flying domestically. Medicare cards alone won’t be accepted for air travel after the deadline.
REAL ID requires additional documentation compared to standard licenses, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), Social Security number verification, and two proofs of New Jersey residency.
The MVC recommends making an appointment online to avoid long waits. Seniors who rarely travel or who already have passports may choose to keep their standard license.
The current fee is the same as a standard license renewal, making it a cost-effective option for those who plan to travel.
For more information about NJ REAL ID, please visit the MVC website.
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