There is no federal rule that prohibits Green Card holders from renewing a REAL ID online. Federal regulations allow states to process remote renewals as long as the state's own procedures permit it.
“I am a Green Card holder and was told I have to be a US citizen to renew my REAL ID online. Is this a federal rule for all Green Card holders, or does online renewal eligibility vary by state?”
Summary
You can cross this worry off your list. The federal government does not ban you from renewing your REAL ID online just because you are a Green Card holder.
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How federal rules handle online renewals
Federal regulations state that a state may conduct a remote or non-in-person renewal if the state's procedures permit it.
Because the federal rule leaves this up to state procedures, online renewal eligibility varies by state.
To renew remotely under federal rules, the state must reverify your Social Security Number and your lawful status.
Federal rules also say a state cannot renew your REAL ID remotely if there has been a material change in any of your personally identifiable information since your last card was issued.
Next steps
When a state conducts a remote renewal, federal regulations require the following conditions:
Confirm state procedures permit it
A state may conduct a non-in-person renewal if their own procedures allow it.
Check for material changes
You cannot renew remotely if there has been a material change in any personally identifiable information since your prior card was issued.
Pass reverification
The state must reverify your Social Security Number and lawful status before renewing the credential.
Legal sources
These facts come from the Code of Federal Regulations governing REAL ID.
6 CFR 37.25(b)
States are allowed to conduct remote renewals if their own procedures permit it.
Except as provided in (b)(2) a State may conduct a non-in-person (remote) renewal if State procedures permit the renewal to be conducted remotely.
6 CFR 37.25(b)(1)
The state must reverify your Social Security Number and lawful status before renewing the card.
The State must reverify the applicant's SSN and lawful status pursuant to § 37.13 prior to renewing the driver's license or identification card.
6 CFR 37.25(b)(2)
Remote renewal is not allowed if there has been a material change in your personally identifiable information.
The State may not remotely renew a REAL ID driver's license or identification card where there has been a material change in any personally identifiable information since prior issuance.
SettleKit is not a law firm. This is general information, not legal advice. Confirm your specific situation with a licensed immigration attorney.
SettleKit is not a law firm. This is general information, not legal advice.
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