The time it takes to receive a REAL ID in the mail varies by state but generally ranges from about 10 days to 4 weeks after application or issuance:
- In California, a REAL ID or identification card typically takes about 3 to 4 weeks to arrive by mail after application
- In Oklahoma, the permanent REAL ID card usually arrives within 10 to 14 days after your visit to the licensing office, with a temporary paper copy provided immediately
- Missouri advises allowing 10 to 15 days for processing and mailing of a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card
- Indiana reports that mailing a REAL ID credential takes approximately 14 days
- Pennsylvania states that REAL IDs are mailed within 15 business days after document verification
- Oregon estimates up to 3 weeks for a REAL ID to arrive by mail
- Some anecdotal reports from users on Reddit suggest actual mailing times can be as short as 7 to 16 days, though delays up to 2 months have occurred
In summary, you should generally expect to wait between 10 days and 4 weeks to receive your REAL ID in the mail, depending on your state’s DMV processing times and mailing speed. It is recommended to apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before any planned travel requiring REAL ID compliance to ensure timely receipt
