As a resident of Wisconsin, having a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card is crucial for traveling and accessing certain government facilities. The process of obtaining a REAL ID in Wisconsin is straightforward, and we'll guide you through it in 5 easy steps.
Obtaining a REAL ID is a great opportunity to ensure your identity documents are up-to-date and secure. A REAL ID is a federally accepted form of identification that meets the minimum security standards set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. With a REAL ID, you'll be able to use it to fly domestically, enter federal buildings, and access military bases, among other benefits.
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before visiting a Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, make sure you have the necessary documents. You'll need:
- Proof of identity (such as a U.S. birth certificate, valid passport, or certificate of naturalization)
- Proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form)
- Proof of Wisconsin residency (such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement)
- Proof of name change (if applicable, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree)
What Documents Are Accepted as Proof of Identity?
- U.S. birth certificate
- Valid passport
- Certificate of naturalization
- Certificate of citizenship
- Valid permanent resident card
- Valid employment authorization document
What Documents Are Accepted as Proof of Social Security Number?
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- 1099 form
- Pay stub with Social Security number
What Documents Are Accepted as Proof of Wisconsin Residency?
- Utility bill
- Lease agreement
- Bank statement
- Employment verification letter
- School enrollment records
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
You can download and print the REAL ID application form (MV3004) from the Wisconsin DMV website or pick one up at a local DMV office. Fill out the form carefully and accurately, making sure to sign it.
What Information Do I Need to Provide on the Application Form?
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number
- Wisconsin residency address
- Mailing address (if different)
- Phone number
- Email address (optional)
Step 3: Visit a Wisconsin DMV Office
Take the completed application form, required documents, and payment to a Wisconsin DMV office. You can find a list of DMV offices on the Wisconsin DMV website. The fee for a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card is the same as a standard license or ID card.
What Are the Fees for a REAL ID?
- REAL ID-compliant driver's license: $28 (6-year license) or $34 (8-year license)
- REAL ID-compliant ID card: $16 (6-year ID) or $20 (8-year ID)
Step 4: Get Your Photo Taken
At the DMV office, a representative will take your photo for your REAL ID. Make sure to remove any hats, sunglasses, or other obstructions that may interfere with the photo.
What Are the Photo Requirements for a REAL ID?
- The photo must be a clear, front-facing image
- The photo must be taken against a white or light-colored background
- The photo must not show any obstructions, such as hats or sunglasses
Step 5: Receive Your REAL ID
Once your application is processed, you'll receive your REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card in the mail within 7-10 business days. Your REAL ID will have a gold star in the upper right corner, indicating that it meets federal security standards.
What Can I Do with My REAL ID?
- Fly domestically
- Enter federal buildings
- Access military bases
- Use it as a valid form of identification for domestic travel and other purposes
By following these 5 easy steps, you'll be able to obtain a REAL ID in Wisconsin. Remember to gather the required documents, fill out the application form, visit a DMV office, get your photo taken, and receive your REAL ID. With a REAL ID, you'll be ready for domestic travel and other situations where a federally accepted form of identification is required.
Don't hesitate to share your thoughts or ask questions about the Wisconsin REAL ID process in the comments below. If you found this article helpful, be sure to share it with your friends and family who may be interested in obtaining a REAL ID.
What is a REAL ID?
+A REAL ID is a federally accepted form of identification that meets the minimum security standards set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Do I need a REAL ID to fly domestically?
+Yes, starting October 1, 2021, you'll need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card to fly domestically.
What documents do I need to provide to get a REAL ID?
+You'll need to provide proof of identity, Social Security number, Wisconsin residency, and name change (if applicable).