Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana

1. What is the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License status in Louisiana?


In Louisiana, the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License are both available. The Real ID enables a person to use a valid driver’s license as identification for domestic air travel and federal buildings. The Enhanced Driver’s License adds additional security features and can be used as an alternative to a passport when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

2. Is Louisiana compliant with the Real ID Act?


Yes, Louisiana is compliant with the Real ID Act.

3. Does Louisiana offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program?


Yes, Louisiana offers a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program. To apply for a Real ID, applicants must present proof of identity, a Social Security number, Louisiana residency documents, and proof of any name changes. To apply for the Enhanced Driver’s License, applicants must present the same documents as well as an additional proof of physical address.

4. Is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License required to obtain a driver’s license in Louisiana?


A Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Louisiana. However, a valid Social Security number is required to obtain a driver’s license in the state.

5. What documentation is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


In order to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana, applicants must provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. Acceptable forms of documentation include a valid U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, Social Security card, driver’s license or ID card from another state, permanent resident card or foreign passport with an I-94 form, marriage certificate or divorce decree, W-2 form, current utility bill or bank statement with name and address, and any other original document that may be used to prove identity, Social Security number, and residency in Louisiana.

6. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


The fee for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana is $25.

7. How long is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License valid for in Louisiana?


A Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana is valid for 4 years.

8. Are there any special restrictions for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


Yes. In order to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana, applicants must provide proof of identity (usually a valid passport or certified birth certificate), proof of Social Security number, two proofs of Louisiana residency, and proof of a valid physical address. Applicants must also pass the written and driving tests administered by the Office of Motor Vehicles and pay the appropriate fees.

9. Does Louisiana accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states?


No, Louisiana does not accept Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states.

10. Can a person with a temporary visa obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


No. Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for a Louisiana Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License.

11. Can a person use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Louisiana?


Yes, a person can use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Louisiana.

12. Are there any special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


Yes, when renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana, there are certain documents required to prove identity, social security number and residency. These documents include proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, etc.), proof of social security number (Social Security card, tax forms, etc.) and two proofs of residency (utility bills, bank statements, etc.).

13. How can I apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


You can apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana by visiting your local Office of Motor Vehicles. You will need to bring original documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, birth date, residency status, and Louisiana residency. Accepted documents include passports, birth certificates, social security cards, residency documents, and more. You may also be required to take a new photograph and pay a fee.

14. Does Louisiana have any additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License?


Yes. In addition to the standard Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License requirements, Louisiana requires applicants to bring two documents proving Louisiana residency, such as a utility bill or bank statement, and one document proving identity and legal presence in the United States, such as a valid U.S. passport or consular report of birth abroad.

15. Can I use my Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Louisiana?


Yes, you can use your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Louisiana.

16. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


Yes. Louisiana Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Applicants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present to sign the application.

17. Is a vision test required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


Yes, a vision test is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana.

18. Is there a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


Yes, there is a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana. The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles typically processes new or amended Real IDs and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses within 15 business days.

19. What forms of payment are accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana?


The payment methods accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana are cash, money order, personal check, or Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express credit cards.

20. Are there any special considerations when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Louisiana for military personnel and veterans?


Yes. For military personnel and veterans, Louisiana offers a special “Military Gold Star” ID card. This card is issued at no cost and allows for the purchase of a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License at a discounted rate. Additionally, the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles offers fee waivers for veterans who were honorably discharged or medically retired from military service.