REAL ID Requirements in Tippecanoe County, Indiana
How to get a REAL ID driver’s license or state ID card
Quick Answer
REAL ID requires an in-person visit to the Lafayette BMV with specific documents proving identity, Social Security number, and Indiana residency. A REAL ID is needed to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
Where to Apply
Lafayette BMV Branch
2200 Elmwood Ave, Suite A6
Lafayette, IN 47904
Statewide Support: 888-692-6841
Documents You Must Bring
Identity Verification (one required)
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Valid U.S. passport
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Certified birth certificate
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Consular report of birth abroad
Social Security Verification (one required)
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Social Security card
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W-2 form
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1099 form
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Pay stub with full SSN
Indiana Residency (two required)
Documents must show name and Indiana address.
Examples:
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Utility bill
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Lease or mortgage paperwork
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Bank or credit card statement
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Court document
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Insurance policy
All documents must be originals or certified copies.
Who Needs REAL ID?
You need REAL ID to:
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Board domestic flights
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Enter secure federal buildings
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Access military bases
REAL ID is not required to drive or vote.
How to Get REAL ID
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Gather all required documents
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Visit the Lafayette BMV
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Complete a vision screening
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Have your photo taken
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Pay licensing fees
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Receive a temporary license; REAL ID arrives by mail
Common Issues
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Name changes require legal proof
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Not all birth certificates are REAL ID–compliant (must be certified)
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Photocopies are not accepted
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Documents must match exactly (name, SSN, residency)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need REAL ID if I have a passport?
A: No. A valid passport can be used for domestic flights instead.
Q: Can I apply for REAL ID online?
A: No. REAL ID requires an in-person visit.
Q: Does it cost more than a regular license?
A: No. Fees are the same.
Summary
REAL ID requires proof of identity, Social Security number, and Indiana residency. Visit the Lafayette BMV with original documents to complete the application.