Santa visits Portland DMV to obtain a Real ID card that will allow him to continue delivering packages in the United States

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — After years of delays, it’s time to get your Real ID.

The federal government has set the deadline for May 7, 2025.

A special person received his real ID on Wednesday.

It may not even be Christmas yet, but Santa is gearing up for all of his Christmas outings next year. He stopped by the DMV in Southeast Portland to get his Real ID.

“The reason for this is because I want to be able to travel around the United States and check on the naughty boys and girls and the good boys and girls,” he said.

It is an enhanced ID that you will need if you want to board a plane on or after May 7th.

You can tell you have a Real ID if your driver’s license, permit, or ID card has an asterisk in the top right corner.

Amy Joyce, the DMV administrator, said you don’t want to buy a plane ticket and then find out you can’t make it through airport security.

“This is a great time to think about going away next Christmas, next Thanksgiving, next summer, kids going on spring break. You have to think about it now,” Joyce said.

Here’s what you must be submitted to the DMV:

Bring documents proving your identity, date of birth, and lawful status in the United States. You will also need two proofs of your Oregon address from two different sources, something people often overlook.

“It’s a federal requirement, so maybe bring your old driver’s license with your current address. Do not bring any other document from the DMV. Bring not just a utility bill but a magazine address,” Joyce said.

You can also use a valid passport to board a flight if you do not have a Real ID.

Go to Homeland Security Real ID website Here is a full list of qualifying documents and what you need to bring to get a Real ID.