REAL ID federal enforcement begins May 7, 2025

Beginning May 7, 2025, Minnesotans 18 years of age or older will need a REAL ID, Enhanced ID, or another federally-approved form of identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. Standard Minnesota driver’s licenses and ID cards will no longer be accepted for these purposes.  

Get your REAL ID at the Olmsted County Government Center 

Olmsted County residents can apply for a REAL ID or Enhanced ID at the Olmsted County Government Center. They key difference between the REAL and Enhanced ID is that an Enhanced ID allows land or sea border crossings between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The Enhanced ID also requires different documentation.  

To streamline the process, residents should: 

1. Pre-apply on the MN Driver & Vehicle Services webpage before coming in. 
2. Use the Olmsted County Online Check-in system to secure an arrival time and avoid long lines. 

Once an arrival time is secured, applicants will receive a ticket number via text, which will provide further details about the check-in process at the Government Center. 

What you need to apply for a REAL ID 

Applicants must bring: 

• One document proving full legal name, date of birth, and legal presence. 
• Proof of all name changes, if applicable. All documentation must be certified. 
• Two different documents showing current Minnesota residence address (P.O. boxes are not accepted). 
• Social Security Number (SSN) or proof of exemptions if not eligible. 

Non-U.S. citizens must provide federal immigration documents. All documents will be electronically verified by U.S. Customs and Immigration Services. 

See additional details about accepted and required document types.  

Plan ahead and ensure you’re prepared with the travel documents you need. 

For information about passports: Passports | Olmsted County, MN 

For information about driver’s licenses or state ID cards: Driver's license or state identification cards | Olmsted County, MN 

Watch a step-by-step video walkthrough of the REAL ID application process at the Olmsted County Government Center on Olmsted County’s YouTube channel.