Although the actual ID deadline it has been pushed several times, it is unlikely to change again.

The deadline to get one is May 7, 2025.

“Beginning on that date, federal agencies are prohibited from accepting a state-issued driver’s license or identification card for official purposes, unless such license or card is a REAL ID driver’s license or a state-issued ID card that DHS has determined to be in full. compliance as defined in this part,” US Department of Homeland Security states.

The deadline was changed from 2023 to 2025 due to the lingering effects of the shutdowns at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which created a steep backlog of work for licensing agencies.

Items needed to get a real ID include a birth certificate or US passport, a social security card, and proof of residency, such as a bill from the last 60 days.

The name on the documents must match your name. current. If not, a marriage certificate or divorce decree is required.

Applying for a Real ID in Massachusetts can begin online. For more information, click here.