The New Montana REAL ID Requirements Are Simple

A REAL ID is now required for domestic air travel and even required to enter certain federal buildings and facilities. What documents do you need to get a REAL ID? It's a very simple process if you're prepared and make an appointment if you can.

Even though the deadline to get a REAL ID had been pushed back many times over the years, 2025 became the year that Montanans can no longer drag their feet. Although you don't need a REAL ID to drive, you do need one now to fly domestically.

So if you want to get on an airplane, make sure to gather the right documents and get your REAL ID. Airports have ended any unofficial grace periods, and now those folks who don't have a new REAL ID can be denied boarding.

Those people who already have a valid, unexpired Passport seemingly have less documentation to gather, but the process is still simple even if you do not have a valid Passport, so don't worry. (Better find your Birth Certificate, or order one from where you were born!)

IMPORTANT: If your current legal name doesn’t match the documents you submit, you must prove ALL legal name changes.

For some reason, Montanans have been waiting until the very last minute (and beyond) to get the new REAL ID. Online forums are packed with people asking if they "can still get away with" just a driver's license to fly, etc.

• "Montana has been issuing them for over half a decade. The deadline was months ago. Why are we still asking the question?"
• "They've only been warning us for 20 years, I mean it's sooooo hard to get a real ID when you're only given 20 years to do so. They should hold the line and if you don't have it by now you can't fly."
• "I’m sitting at the airport waiting for my flight right now. Either a Real ID or a passport is all they were taking."

There are THREE steps of documentation required to get a REAL ID in Montana. It's easiest for those with a valid passport AND who have never changed their name.

IMPORTANT: When proving you are a Montana resident, all supporting documents must have your name, current physical address (P.O. Boxes are not accepted), and be unexpired or dated within one year.

Documents Required to get REAL ID

NOTE: AAA members can do the REAL ID process at AAA offices with an appointment. The AAA office will give you a handy cheat-sheet of required documents to bring to your appointment.

"You are not required to get a Montana REAL ID compliant license or ID; however, a Montana REAL ID compliant license or ID or another acceptable form of identification is required to fly domestically and access federal facilities by May 7, 2025. Alternative options, such as a passport or passport card, are acceptable forms of identification." (Montana DOJ)

Schedule REAL ID Appointment Online

Get our free mobile app