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PennDOT expands documents accepted for REAL ID applications

REAL ID-compliant licenses are designated by a gold star. (Source: PennDOT)

The state Department of Transportation announced Wednesday that is expanding the list of documents accepted as proof of one’s Social Security number when applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card.

Up to now, applicants could only present a Social Security card. Going forward, the following will be accepted as well:

  • W-2 form
  • SSA-1099 form
  • Non-SSA-1099 form
  • A pay stub with the applicant’s name and full Social Security Number

To be valid, the name on the document submitted must match the applicant’s current legal name.

“We want the process to be as convenient as possible while still following federal regulations,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said in a statement. “We have confirmed that accepting these additional documents does not compromise the security or integrity of the REAL ID program.”

The REAL ID program is a federal update of standards for documents establishing proof of identification. Beginning May 7, 2025, only REAL ID will be accepted for purposes including boarding domestic airline flights or entering certain federal buildings.

PennDOT issues both REAL ID and standard-issue drivers licenses and ID cards. For more information, visit the department’s REAL ID web page.