HARRISBURG, PA — With the May 7, 2025, federal enforcement deadline rapidly approaching, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is ramping up efforts to ensure residents can obtain a REAL ID in time. To support this initiative, PennDOT has announced a series of REAL ID Days across the state, exclusively focused on processing REAL IDs to streamline the experience for residents.
These efforts are a direct response to increasing demand, as more than 700 Pennsylvanians attended previous REAL ID Days events. The Shapiro Administration’s continued focus on improving accessibility and customer service reflects its commitment to helping Pennsylvanians prepare for the upcoming federal regulations.
“PennDOT is committed to making it as convenient as possible for Pennsylvanians to obtain a REAL ID if they want one,” said PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton. “Because we’re seeing an increase in demand, we decided to offer our REAL ID Days as a way to ensure we are meeting the needs of the public and providing them with the best possible customer service.”
Dedicated REAL ID Processing Days
The next REAL ID Days event will take place on February 24, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at six Driver License Centers, including locations in Butler, Washington, Lebanon, Lehighton, Bensalem, and Easton. During these events, the centers will exclusively provide REAL ID processing services, allowing staff to focus solely on helping residents meet this critical need.
- Butler Driver License Center at 158 Point Plaza, Butler.
- Washington Driver License Center at 250 Oak Springs Road, Washington.
- Lebanon Driver License Center at 900 East Old Cumberland Street.
- Lehighton Driver License Center at 1403 Blakeslee Boulevard, Lehighton.
- Bensalem Driver License Center at 4201 Neshaminy Boulevard, Bensalem.
- Easton Driver License Center at 2473 Nazareth Road, Easton.
These special Monday sessions are held on days when the licensing centers are typically closed. Outside of these events, residents can still apply for a REAL ID during normal operating hours at PennDOT’s available centers.
What is REAL ID, and Who Needs It?
Beginning May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card will be required for certain federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights, entering military bases, and accessing select federal facilities. While getting a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, it is a necessary step for residents who frequently engage in activities requiring federally approved identification.
More than 2.5 million Pennsylvanians have already opted into the REAL ID program. For those still considering their options, PennDOT offers a comprehensive online wizard to help determine whether a REAL ID is suitable for their needs.
What’s Required to Obtain a REAL ID?
To secure a REAL ID, residents must bring a specific set of documents to a Driver License Center or REAL ID Center. These include proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or valid passport), proof of Social Security Number, two proofs of Pennsylvania residency, and documentation of any legal name changes.
Once the proper documentation is provided, and the associated fees are paid ($30 one-time REAL ID fee and applicable renewal fees), residents have two options to receive their REAL ID. They can either collect it over the counter at a REAL ID Center or receive it in the mail within 15 days if applied for at standard Driver License Centers.
Is REAL ID Right For You?
While Pennsylvania has made the process seamless, not everyone may need a REAL ID. Alternatives like passports and military IDs will still be accepted for federal identification purposes. For those who received their first Pennsylvania license or ID card after September 1, 2003, PennDOT might already have the required documents on file, making the transition to a REAL ID even easier through pre-verification and online ordering.
Looking Ahead
The countdown to the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline is underway, and PennDOT’s targeted REAL ID Days signal the agency’s proactive approach to minimizing inconvenience for residents. By processing REAL IDs on dedicated dates and across multiple venues, Pennsylvania is setting an example of efficient, resident-centered governance.
With just a few months left, Pennsylvanians are urged to prepare now and take advantage of these dedicated events. By doing so, the state not only helps its citizens comply with federal requirements but also reinforces a broader effort to improve public accessibility and convenience—a step forward that could inspire similar initiatives nationwide.
For a list of driver license and REAL ID centers and their services, visit the PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services website and click Find A Location.
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