The Deadline to Update Your Connecticut ID is Approaching Sooner Than You Think

Updating your Connecticut ID could be mandatory, even if your expiration date isn't for a few years.

Maybe you changed your name, have an older ID, or have an ID that was issued to you not that long ago, but the updates were never made to it. Real ID has been rolled out to DMVs since October of 2011 and Connecticut did a good job at trying to get many people to have Real IDs by the time they became mandatory.

What is a Real ID? According to ct.gov, it stems from national security measures and federal identification standards that were set in place after 9/11. It also helps residents against identity theft. Your Real ID card is your drivers license or state ID that will have a star on the top right corner like the picture below.

If you're someone who likes to travel and you plan to fly domestically, you will need a Real ID by the deadline of May 7, 2025. If you don't have one, you need to make an in-person appointment with DMV site.

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When applying, make sure you follow the rules on what you will need and if you're eligible. There is nothing worse than making that DMV appointment, finally getting it, and then them telling you you're missing that important piece of paperwork and now not only did you waste your time, but you need to wait another however many weeks until the next appointment opens. I will say, the one good thing to come out of COVID is those DMV appointments. At least it's a little less chaotic.

Here's what to know:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen and permanent resident
• Required documents include a U.S passport or birth certificate, a social security card, and two pieces of mail within the last 90 days to prove that you live in Connecticut.
• Schedule an appointment with the DMV. After your appointment, your ID can take up to 20 business days to receive it.

If you don't need a license renewal and are just scheduling for a Real ID, it will cost $30. If you're renewing your license, the price for a 6 year renewal will be $72.

May of next year will be here before we know it, and everyone that hasn't gotten one yet will be scurrying to do so. Make sure you beat the crowds and get it done ahead of time.