So You Wanna Be a REAL ID Rockstar? Buckle Up for PA's Price Tag!
Ever dreamt of flashing a license that screams, "Hey world, I'm a certified domestic flying ninja!" (Because that's basically what a REAL ID gets you)? Well, my friend in Pennsylvania, that dream comes with a price tag. But fear not, fellow Keystone Stater, for we shall delve into the thrilling world of REAL ID costs with the grace of a swan and the knowledge of, well, a driver's manual.
How Much Does It Cost To Get A Real Id Driver's License In Pennsylvania |
The REAL Breakdown: It's Not About Benjamins, But...
First things first, let's forget about forking over a stack of Benjamins. The REAL ID fee in Pennsylvania is a much more manageable $30. That's right, for the privilege of being a certified air travel ninja (or someone who just needs to enter a secure federal building), you'll pay less than a fancy coffee.
But wait, there's more! This cool $30 is just a one-time fee. Think of it as your REAL ID initiation fee. You also gotta pay the regular renewal fee for your driver's license. This fee currently sits at a chill $39.50 for a four-year non-commercial license.
Do the math whizzes in the house still awake? If your current license is about to expire anyway, you're looking at a total cost of around $60.50 to become a REAL ID rockstar. Not too shabby, right?
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
Now, if you're Captain Careful and your license has a while left on it, then you only pay the sweet $30 REAL ID fee. You won't have to cough up the renewal fee again until your new, super awesome REAL ID expires.
Basically, you ain't losing out on any pre-paid license time. You're just getting upgraded to the coolest ID on the block (or at least the most secure).
FAQ: Your REAL ID Journey Starts Here!
Alright, alright, enough with the theatrics. Here's the nitty-gritty in case you need a quick rundown:
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How to find out the exact renewal fee for my license type?
Head over to PennDOT's website (https://prddmv.pwpca.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx) for the latest fees.
How to apply for a REAL ID?
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
You can't apply online (security reasons and all that jazz). Just mosey on down to your local Driver's License Center with the required documents (https://www.dmv.pa.gov/realid/pages/default.aspx?utm_medium=adwords&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=real_id_2019&utm_content=text_ads).
How long does it take to get a REAL ID?
Processing times can vary, but generally, you'll get your REAL ID within a few weeks.
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How long is a REAL ID valid for?
Just like a regular license, a REAL ID is typically valid for four years (unless you're over 65, then it might be two years).
How can I avoid the REAL ID fee altogether?
If you're not too fussed about domestic air travel or entering secure federal buildings, you can stick with your regular driver's license. But hey, where's the fun in that?