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What Is a Missouri Real ID and Why It Matters

A Real ID is a type of identification document that meets federal security standards set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Missouri has been issuing Real ID driver's licenses and identification cards since 2009. The Real ID requirements came from a federal law passed in 2005 that set stricter rules for how states must verify identity information before issuing driver's licenses.

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Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to board commercial flights within the United States and to enter certain federal facilities. Without a Real ID driver's license, you would need to bring a passport, military ID, or other federally accepted document instead. This change affects every adult in Missouri who plans to fly domestically.

Missouri's Real ID cards look similar to standard driver's licenses but include a small gold star in the upper right corner. This star indicates that the document meets federal standards. The card contains enhanced security features that make it harder to counterfeit or alter.

The state processes thousands of Real ID documents each year. As of 2024, approximately 70 percent of Missouri residents have obtained a Real ID driver's license or ID card. This represents millions of people who have already gone through the process and successfully received their documents.

Practical takeaway: If you plan to fly commercially or visit federal buildings, you will need either a Real ID or an alternative federal identification document. Understanding the requirements now gives you time to plan ahead.

Documents You Will Need to Bring to the Missouri Department of Revenue

The Missouri Department of Revenue requires specific documents to verify your identity before issuing a Real ID. These documents fall into different categories: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of legal presence in the United States. You must bring originals or certified copies—photocopies generally will not be accepted.

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For proof of identity, you can bring a U.S. passport, U.S. military ID, birth certificate issued by a vital records office, or state ID from another state. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp from the issuing vital records agency. Regular photocopies or certified copies without proper seals will not work.

For proof of your Social Security number, you can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form from your employer, a 1099 form, a paycheck stub, or a Social Security Administration letter. The document must show your full nine-digit Social Security number.

To prove your residency in Missouri, you need documents showing your current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, mortgage statement, lease agreement, bank statement, credit card statement, insurance policy, or government benefit statement. The document must be current—typically from within the last 60 days—and show your full name and complete address.

For proof of legal presence in the United States, you can bring a U.S. passport, U.S. military discharge papers, certified birth certificate, permanent resident card (green card), or employment authorization document. Non-citizens must provide one of these documents along with proof of their legal immigration status.

Practical takeaway: Gather all required documents before going to a Department of Revenue office. Having everything prepared means your visit will be faster and more likely to succeed on the first trip.

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Your Real ID at Missouri Department of Revenue Offices

The process for getting a Real ID in Missouri involves several clear steps that happen at a local Department of Revenue office. You cannot complete this process online or by mail—you must appear in person. The entire visit typically takes between 15 and 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is and whether your documents are in order.

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First, you will need to locate your nearest Department of Revenue office. Missouri has more than 50 locations across the state, including offices in all major cities and many smaller towns. You can find the complete list of office locations and their hours on the Missouri Secretary of State website. Some offices require appointments while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Calling ahead helps you understand wait times and appointment availability.

When you arrive at the office, bring all required documents from the previous section. You will check in at the front desk and receive a number or ticket. An employee will call your number when a service window becomes available. At the window, the staff member will review your documents to verify they are acceptable and genuine.

Next, you will complete an application form. The staff member will ask you questions about your identity, address, Social Security number, and whether you have any medical conditions that affect your driving. You will also be asked about traffic violations and criminal history. Answer these questions truthfully—providing false information is a crime.

You will then have your photograph taken. This photo will appear on your Real ID document. You will be instructed to remove glasses, hats, and head coverings (unless for religious reasons), and to look directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

Finally, you will pay the fee and receive information about when your Real ID will be mailed to you. As of 2024, a Real ID driver's license costs $29.50 and a Real ID identification card costs $14.50. Processing times usually range from 5 to 10 business days.

Practical takeaway: Prepare a checklist of all documents before your office visit, arrive early on less busy days if possible, and bring correct payment. This planning reduces the chance that you will need to make a second trip.

Real ID Requirements for Different Situations and Life Changes

Different circumstances affect how and when you need to obtain a Real ID. If you are a first-time driver in Missouri, you will receive a Real ID driver's license when you pass your driving test and meet the standard requirements. You do not have a choice in this matter—all new Missouri driver's licenses issued since 2009 are Real IDs.

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If you already have a standard Missouri driver's license without the gold star, you can request a Real ID upgrade at any time. You will need to visit a Department of Revenue office in person with your required documents. Your current license will be surrendered and replaced with a Real ID license that contains the same license number.

If you have recently changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons, you will need to update your Real ID. You must bring legal documentation showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This update requires an in-person visit to a Department of Revenue office.

If you have moved to Missouri from another state, you can exchange your out-of-state license for a Missouri Real ID license. You will need to bring your current out-of-state license along with proof of residency in Missouri and other required documents. The process is similar to a standard Real ID application.

If your Real ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to request a replacement. For a lost or stolen license, you should also file a report with local law enforcement. Bring a police report number along with your required identity documents to the Department of Revenue office. A replacement Real ID typically costs the same as a new one.

If your Real ID expires, you will need to renew it. Missouri driver's licenses are generally valid for six years. You can renew by mail if your license is not suspended and you have not had any major address changes. However, if you have moved, changed your name, or significantly changed your appearance, you will need to renew in person at a Department of Revenue office.

Practical takeaway: Your life situation determines what documents and processes you need to follow. Understanding your specific circumstance ahead of time helps you gather the right paperwork and complete the process correctly.

How Real ID Information Is Protected and What Privacy Rules Apply

Missouri's Department of Revenue follows strict rules about how it collects, stores, and uses your personal information when you obtain a Real ID. These rules come from both Missouri state law and federal regulations. Understanding these protections helps you feel confident about sharing your information.

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When you provide documents and answer questions at a Department of Revenue office, the staff member scans or photographs your documents and enters your information into a secure database. This database is protected by encryption and access controls, meaning only authorized employees can view it. Your biometric data—your photograph—is also stored securely and used only to issue your license and prevent fraud.