A REAL ID does not directly state that you are a U.S. citizen; it only indicates that you have provided documentation to the state proving your identity and legal presence. While U.S. citizens obtain them, non-citizens with valid, lawful immigration status (such as green card holders or visa holders) can also receive a REAL ID.
Key details regarding REAL ID and citizenship:
- Proof of Legal Presence: The documentation required for a REAL ID proves you are legally in the U.S. at the time of issuance, not necessarily that you are a citizen.
- Non-Citizen Eligibility: Foreign nationals with lawful status can receive a REAL ID, which will generally look the same as one issued to a citizen.
- Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL): Only specific "Enhanced" licenses (available in a few states like Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington) explicitly prove U.S. citizenship, unlike standard REAL IDs.
- Purpose: A REAL ID (usually marked with a star) is for federal security, such as boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings.
Therefore, a REAL ID confirms your identity and lawful presence, but it is not definitive proof of U.S. citizenship.
