Edited release
4/8/25
The Iowa Department of Transportation has issued guidelines and instructions on how to obtain a REAL ID ahead of the May 7th deadline.
Starting that day, all travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card or another acceptable document like a passport to board domestic commercial flights. A REAL ID will also be required to access certain federal buildings or enter nuclear facilities.
The DOT says you don’t need a REAL ID to drive, vote, purchase alcohol or cigarettes, access hospitals, visit the post office, access federal courts, or apply for or receive federal benefits such as social security or veterans’ benefits.
Documentation needed to obtain a real ID includes 1 document that proves your identity and date of birth, 1 document that proves your social security number, and two documents proving Iowa residence and residential address.
Complete information on the REAL ID program is available by searching “REAL ID” at Iowa DOT.gov.