Flying Soon? Apply For Your REAL ID At MSP Airport

TWIN CITIES, MN — Minnesota air travelers flying out of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport’s Terminal 1 can save themselves a trip to a DVS, deputy registrar or driver’s license agent office and apply for their REAL ID at the airport.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services division (DPS-DVS) opened a REAL ID office March 2, inside Terminal 1 in the MSP mall area, next to the Prince store near the entrance to Concourse G.

The goal is to provide a convenient way for air travelers to get their questions answered and apply for their REAL ID, according to a news release.

Beginning Oct. 1, 2020, Minnesotans will not be able to use their standard driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities. Instead, they will need a REAL ID, enhanced driver’s license or ID card, passport or passport card or another acceptable form of identification for federal purposes.

"We are working hard to get the word out to Minnesotans that they need a REAL ID by October 1, in order to board their flights and enter federal buildings," Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said in a statement. "The REAL ID Office is another resource for Minnesotans to get their questions answered or even apply for a REAL ID right at the airport."

REAL ID Airport Office

The office will accept REAL ID applications Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. by appointment only. Minnesotans can schedule their appointment for the day they fly out of MSP Terminal 1 online at drive.mn.gov. They must:

• Be a ticketed passenger at MSP Terminal 1 for the day they schedule their appointment.
• Be a current Minnesota resident.
• Hold and bring a valid Minnesota driver’s license, permit or state ID. If expired, it must have expired less than one year ago.
• Complete the online pre-application. Visit REALID.dps.mn.gov to pre-apply.
• Be eligible for a REAL ID and bring all required documents.
• Bring a valid credit card for payment.