The REAL ID deadline arrived, and scammers have been busy creating fake websites that promise online processing — but consumers visiting their DMV discover these sites are nothing but fraud designed to steal personal information and money.
Quick Takes
- REAL IDs, identifiable by a gold star in the corner, can only be obtained in person at your local DMV—any website claiming otherwise is a scam.
- Scammers are creating fraudulent websites that ask for personal information and bank details, claiming to expedite REAL ID processing.
- Even after the May 7 deadline, Americans can still use valid passports for domestic flights and accessing federal buildings.
- Government agencies like the DMV will never contact you about obtaining a REAL ID as it’s an optional license.
- Report suspicious websites or communications to the Better Business Bureau and Federal Trade Commission.
REAL ID Requirements and Legitimate Processes
The REAL ID deadline is now in effect, requiring Americans to have this identification for domestic flights and access to certain federal buildings. These enhanced driver’s licenses are easily identifiable by a gold star in the upper right corner. Despite what some websites claim, obtaining a REAL ID requires visiting your local DMV in person with specific documentation including a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency. This requirement stems from recommendations by the 9/11 Commission to enhance airline safety and security measures.
“Real ID, per federal requirements, has to be done in person,” confirms Charlie Norman at fox8.com. The identification process involves physical verification of documents that cannot be completed online. For those who haven’t obtained a REAL ID, there’s no need to panic. Valid US passports and several other federally approved documents remain acceptable for domestic air travel. The Transportation Security Administration maintains a complete list of alternative documents for those who prefer not to obtain a REAL ID.
Real ID scams target applicants as deadline hits — this is one red flag to watch out for https://t.co/8YvlPx796f pic.twitter.com/XrjfKKv7kl
— New York Post (@nypost) May 7, 2025
How to Spot REAL ID Scams
Fraudsters are capitalizing on confusion surrounding the REAL ID deadline by creating sophisticated websites that appear legitimate. These sites falsely claim to process REAL IDs entirely online, promising expedited service for a fee. The most obvious red flag is any request for bank account information or credit card numbers beyond standard DMV fees. Government agencies will never contact individuals directly about obtaining a REAL ID, as it remains an optional form of identification for American citizens.
“If you’re asked to provide additional information, such as bank account information or credit card numbers, likely a red flag of a scam,” Bao Vang told CBS News
Scammers often create convincing phishing attempts that appear to come from legitimate sources like state DMVs or the Department of Homeland Security. These communications typically contain urgent language and web links designed to harvest your personal information. Remember that no legitimate government agency will solicit your personal data through unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles and other state agencies have issued warnings about these deceptive practices that target Americans as the enforcement deadline approaches.
Protecting Your Personal Information
The consequences of falling victim to these scams extend far beyond the inconvenience of not having a REAL ID. Criminals collect personal information such as Social Security numbers and birthdates to commit various types of fraud. “Scammers will use that personally identifiable information that they can get from your birth certificate or your Social Security number to do things like open a credit card in your name or maybe file a medical claim in your name,” warns Pam Anson at fox8.com.
“There are potentially fake websites out there that are trying to collect your personal and identifiable information and then use that in other scams,” Pam Anson adds at fox8.com.
To protect yourself, only use official state DMV websites when seeking information about REAL IDs. These sites typically end in .gov rather than .com or other common domains. For accurate information, contact your state’s DMV directly or visit the Department of Homeland Security’s official website at dhs.gov/real-id. While many DMVs offer online systems to schedule appointments or check wait times, the actual REAL ID application process requires an in-person visit. Some states have extended weekend hours to accommodate increased demand as more Americans seek to obtain this identification.
Reporting Suspected Scams
If you encounter a suspicious website or communication regarding REAL ID applications, report it immediately to protect yourself and others. The Better Business Bureau and Federal Trade Commission maintain reporting systems for consumer fraud. While specific REAL ID scams are relatively new, they follow patterns seen in passport renewal and other government document frauds. Vigilance remains the best defense against these evolving threats targeting Americans seeking to comply with federal identification requirements.
“Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.” emphasizes the 9/11 Commission at states.aarp.org.
The May 7 deadline marks the beginning of federal enforcement for the REAL ID requirement, not the final opportunity to obtain one. Americans can still apply for a REAL ID after this date, though they’ll need alternative identification documents for air travel until their REAL ID is processed. President Trump’s administration has supported enhanced security measures while ensuring Americans have adequate time and information to comply with these requirements. By staying informed and cautious about online claims, citizens can protect themselves from fraudsters exploiting this transition.
