The Real ID And What You Need To Know

Real ID Law

Your ID might look official—but is it federally compliant? Here’s how the Real ID Act could impact your travel plans and your next notarization.

As a commissioned notary and mobile service provider, I’ve seen firsthand how ID confusion can disrupt appointments. With the Real ID enforcement deadline quickly approaching, it’s time to get clear on what this federally compliant identification means—not just for boarding domestic flights, but also for notarizing essential documents like travel consents, powers of attorney, and more.

In this post, we’ll explore what the Real ID is, why it matters, and how you can be prepared.

What You Need To Know Before You Travel Or Notarize

Real ID 101: What’s the Big Deal?

The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. Beginning May 7, 2025, you’ll need a Real ID to fly domestically or enter federal buildings—unless you have a passport or other TSA-approved ID.

If you live in Wisconsin, look for a star in the upper right corner of your driver’s license or state ID—that’s your proof of Real ID compliance. No star? Time to update your ID at the DMV.

Travel Domestically or Internationally

How Do We Get One And Is It Mandatory?

To transition your ID over to the Real ID you must apply in person at your local DMV.

Pro Tip: It doesn't matter whether your ID is coming up on its expiration date, or you do not have any trips planned. Beat the lines and do it early so you have it ready!

When getting your Real ID you’ll want to make sure you have all the necessary documents. Jot down this quick list of what your documents need to prove:

1. Your Full Legal Name

2. Date of Birth

3. Social Security Number

4. Address of Residence

5. Lawful Status

Wisconsin Specific Requirements

According to the Wisconsin DMV, you can Use DMV’s interactive Driver License Guide to receive a personalized checklist of the required documents you will need to bring when you visit a Wisconsin DMV. It also allows you to pre-fill any required application(s), print and bring with you or submit electronically (if eligible). You may also be able to schedule an appointment for the DMV for faster service, but an appointment is not required.

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, you must present additional documentation when you apply. Original document or certified copy (not a photocopy, fax or scan) from each category is required. Some documents may be used for more than one category, whereas some will only satisfy the requirements of a single category. (For example, if you have a U.S. birth certificate, it can be used to provide “proof of name and date of birth” and “proof of legal presence in the U.S.”)

The document categories include:

1. Proof of Name and Date of Birth

2. Proof of Legal Presence in the U.S.

3. Proof of Identity

4. Proof of Name Change (if your name is different than what’s on your birth certificate, proof is needed for each name change)

5. Proof of Address (two forms)

6. Provide your Social Security Number

After presenting all required documents, and paying applicable renewal or duplicate fees, you will be issued either a new Wisconsin ID or driver license with a star in the corner.

So Is It Mandatory?

A Real ID is not required to drive, vote, or apply for federal benefits—but it is required for TSA screening at airports and entry into certain federal buildings after the deadline.

Notary for Travel Documents

3 Reasons Why It Matters for Notarizations

While Real ID isn’t mandatory for all notarizations, it can make things a whole lot smoother:

1. Validity

2. Documents Related To Travel

3. Strict Federal & Healthcare Guidelines

Validity

For notaries like myself, your ID must be valid, government-issued, and include a photo and signature. Expired or outdated IDs? I can’t proceed with your notarization.

Documents Related to Travel

Documents related to travel, like a minor travel consent form or international authorization letters, may require a federally compliant ID to be accepted by airlines, embassies, or customs.

Strict Federal and Healthcare Guidelines

Estate planning and legal paperwork tied to travel, retirement, or long-term care often involves verifying your identity under strict federal or healthcare guidelines—Real ID helps bridge that gap.

Pro Travel Tip: Notarizing forms for international travel or custody? Check your passport and Real ID status at the same time. Many destinations require a passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel dates.

At Jade’s Notary you have the piece of mind knowing that we follow all State of Wisconsin compliant laws when it comes to the validity of your documents! Book your partnership meeting today!

Quick Self-Check Before Booking Your Notarization

Here's a quick checklist before booking your next notarization:

1. Is your ID current and not expired?

2. Does your ID include a clear photo and signature?

3. Is it government-issued (driver’s license, passport, military ID)?

4. Does your ID have the Real ID star? (Not mandatory but ideal!)

Realtor and Notary Transactions

Why You Can Trust Jade’s Notary with Your Travel & ID-Related Documents

When it comes to notarizing documents tied to travel, family safety, and legal compliance, accuracy and trust are everything. At Jade’s Notary, we don’t just stamp and sign—we guide you through the process to make sure your documents are valid, accepted, and protected.

Whether you’re preparing a minor travel consent form, finalizing a power of attorney, or simply ensuring your ID meets notarization standards, we bring:

• Certified expertise in verifying government-issued IDs, including Real ID and passport documentation

• Mobile convenience, so you don’t have to interrupt your busy schedule or scramble last-minute before a trip

• A judgment-free, detail-focused experience that helps you feel confident in what you’re signing—and why

We stay ahead of federal requirements like the Real ID Act so you don’t have to worry about surprises at the airport, the courthouse, or your destination.

Jade’s Notary is more than a service—it’s your trusted partner in life’s legal moments.

Jade's Notary

Ready to book an appointment or talk partnership? Jade's Notary is here to help. Click here to get your appointment scheduled today!

About The Author

Olivia Jade Kelly is an entrepreneur and owner of Jade's Notary, where she serves as a duly commissioned notary public for the State of Wisconsin and a certified Loan Signing Agent as well as a certified Remote Online Notary. In addition to owning Jade's Notary, Olivia is the proud owner of Visions of Jade, LLC, where she utilizes her years of experience as a virtual assistant and consultant. For more information as well as to shop my store click Visions of Jade, LLC.