While not always a driver’s license, photo identification is a must in every state. Did you know some states allow digital driver’s licenses for your digital wallet? Identification cards can also vary by age and whether or not you have a REAL ID. Not sure what all this means? Let’s break it down.
State Issued Photo ID
Having a state-issued photo ID card is still required to prove who you are when the need arises, providing proof of ID at a doctor’s office, when entering an age-restricted entertainment venue, or when voting. For non-drivers, the DMV issues these state-issued photo ID cards, regardless of driving status.
Photo IDs and driver’s licenses make it easier for law enforcement or cashiers to know immediately whether or not a person is a minor. If under twenty-one, the identification card is printed vertically rather than horizontally for a quick visual cue of one’s age. Those who are twenty-one and older will continue with their horizontal photo IDs.
Digital Driver’s Licenses
A handful of states have begun implementing digital driver’s licenses, meaning you can download them to your digital mobile wallet, much like your credit cards or insurance coverage. This brings another level of convenience to having a license or ID, as you no longer need to worry about having your physical copy with you, and that’s one less thing in your wallet. Currently, only Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, and Georgia have implemented digital IDs. Both Google and Apple are working with local governments state by state to roll out digital IDs and driver’s licenses nationwide. According to wired.com, these tech giants believe it may take a while for all fifty states to hop on board but are confident digital IDs are coming eventually. During security screening, TSA also accepts digital photo IDs in select airports as valid proof of identity.
Regardless of whether or not your state offers digital driver’s licenses, it is always a great idea to have a scanned copy of your ID accessible on your device for select purposes, such as applying for medical insurance, applying for a mortgage, or establishing a new investment advisory relationship.
REAL ID
Another thing to consider concerning your license or photo ID is applying for a REAL ID, another security layer for your identification cards when you travel. On May 7, 2025, all photo IDs need to be REAL IDs in order to fly anywhere in the world, either internationally or domestically. A REAL ID can be spotted by locating either a black or gold star in the upper right-hand corner of your ID, according to your state. If you’re unsure you have one, and there is no star in the corner, you don’t. REAL ID is relatively new, and you likely don’t have one if you haven’t recently renewed your license.
Even if you have years yet to renew your license or ID, it is to your own advantage to make an appointment to get one if you plan on flying anywhere in 2025 and beyond. While inconvenient, it is necessary to keep your flight plans running smoothly. Let your next vacation to St. Barts or a European getaway motivate you to go to the DMV this week.
Work ID
Start flashing your work ID outside of work hours! Use your employee photo badge to embrace discounts and benefits related to your chosen career path. First Responders snag benefits with AT&T.com, teacher discounts through ID.me, and various employee perks from your employer, such as Delta Airlines, which offers unlimited standby travel privileges for its employees.
For other life documents to procure and protect, read our blog, Avoiding a Storm—Gather Your Vital Documents.
At Organized Instincts, our daily money managers help you navigate the annoying task of managing valid ID formats. Send us a message to discuss how this is one task that your daily money manager can keep you on track and avoid further complications.
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