Real IDs have been a travel requirement since May, but over 2.8 million Arizonans still don’t have the star on their driver’s license. Arizona is the only state in the country where your license doesn’t expire for several decades, making license renewal a non-priority for lots of residents.

However, it’s crucial for you to obtain your travel ID, just in case any last-minute travel plans arise.

Although people are utilizing MVD services at a slightly higher rate than usual, it’s generally taking less time than it did back in May, and some individuals are receiving their IDs in just a week. Here are some steps you can take to expedite the process and receive your travel ID as soon as possible.

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First-time Arizona license holders, apply online

While finishing the process requires an in-person visit, you can start the application online. If you already hold an Arizona license, this is not necessary because they will simply pull up the information from your last identification card. However, if you’re new to the area or simply applying for an Arizona license for the first time, this can save you a bit of hassle. You will be asked to provide personal information about yourself, including your height, weight, eye color, and Social Security number.

Make an appointment

While an appointment isn’t required, it is recommended to schedule one online after submitting your application, just in case there’s a line. This can save you a significant amount of time.

For quicker service, it’s recommended you go the third-party route. Third-party MVDs tend to offer quicker service because they’re a private business authorized to provide MVD services. This allows them to manage wait times and offer more convenient hours and locations than your typical DMV. Third-party locations can, however, charge an additional fee for their service on top of the standard $25 fee.

Make sure you have the right paperwork

Even if you apply online, bring your paperwork in person. Triple-check your paperwork to ensure everything is accurate. The last thing you want is to be going back and forth to the MVD. Depending on how busy it is, this can add a significant amount of time to the process. Here’s a breakdown of the documentation you will need.

One acceptable document for proof of birth:

  • U.S. certificate of citizenship
  • U.S. certificate of birth abroad
  • U.S. certificate of naturalization
  • I-94 form with a foreign passport and U.S. Visa
  • USCIS employment authorization document
  • U.S. passport or passport card
  • Permanent resident card
  • Certified birth certificate

If you need to order an Arizona birth certificate, you can do so on the Arizona Department of Health Services website with expedited processing. While wait times vary, this typically can take up to a week.

You no longer need a physical Social Security card. Simply knowing the number is fine and can save time gathering documentation. However, if you’ve had your name changed, it’s a good idea to bring it.

Two printed proofs of Arizona residency:

  • Utility bills
  • Credit card or bank statements
  • Insurance policies

If you don’t have one of these, you can fill out an affidavit.

If you need to fill out an affidavit, you can do it online in advance. Make sure to bring a hard copy of it, or you can have it printed at the MVD. This will save you time filling out paperwork.

If you’ve changed your name, have the paperwork to prove it

This is something people often overlook and can easily slow down the process. If your current name differs from the one on your birth certificate or passport, you need documentation to prove you changed your name. Bring an updated Social Security card or Social Security card number. If you do not have an updated Social Security card, you can bring a marriage license or medical card with your current last name.

If you follow these steps and still don’t receive your ID on time, you can still hop on your flight. You will be asked to step into a separate line, where you will be asked to provide other forms of identification, such as a credit card, passport, birth certificate, or any other proof of identification you may have. You will also likely be subject to additional, more thorough security screening.

This entire process can take some time, so please arrive at the airport well in advance. Avoid that extra hassle and get your Real ID if you haven’t already.

Author: Howard Moss is a manager at Arizona Auto License Services, an authorized Arizona MVD third-party vehicle service provider with six locations, including Phoenix, Avondale, Laveen, and Flagstaff.