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Getting a REAL ID in Louisiana

The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV), Department of Public Safety and Corrections page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.

  1. Use the Louisiana REAL ID Checklist on the OMV site to see if you are ready.

    Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  2. Gather one proof of identity and lawful status, such as a U.S. passport or certified U.S. birth certificate.

    Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  3. Have your Social Security information ready; you can give it verbally or bring a card, W-2 or pay stub.

    Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  4. Bring two original proofs of your Louisiana street address from separate sources.

    Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  5. Apply in person at an OMV office; REAL ID cannot be added through the online duplicate service.

    Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.

Related facts

REAL ID
Since May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license/ID (or another accepted ID such as a passport) is needed to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities. First-time REAL ID requires proof of identity, lawful status, date of birth, Social Security number and two proofs of principal residence, in person.Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
REAL ID fee
No extra cost; a REAL ID card costs the same as a non-compliant card.Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
How to spot a REAL ID
A white star with a gold outline at the top of the card.Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
REAL ID residency proofs
Two original documents from separate sources showing your name and Louisiana street address (e.g. utility bill, bank statement, lease, insurance policy).Source: expresslane.la.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

More in the Louisiana guide

Learner's permitSteps and official links →First licenseSteps and official links →RenewalSteps and official links →Moving to LouisianaSteps and official links →Lost or replacement licenseSteps and official links →

Official Louisiana links

Agency home pageexpresslane.la.gov ↗Appointmentsexpresslane.la.gov ↗Driver handbookexpresslane.la.gov ↗Online renewalexpresslane.la.gov ↗REAL IDexpresslane.la.gov ↗Permit and first licenseexpresslane.la.gov ↗New residentsexpresslane.la.gov ↗Replace a licenseexpresslane.la.gov ↗

These links open official government websites. USA DMV is an independent study site and is not affiliated with any of them.

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