REAL ID Deadline Approaching – McAllen Reminds Residents: A Passport Works, Too

Beginning May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. While a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card meets these federal requirements, a U.S. passport is also an acceptable alternative form of identification.

To help residents prepare, the City of McAllen Passport Division is available to assist in obtaining a passport — no appointment needed. Located at the McAllen Downtown Parking Garage (221 S. 15th St.), the office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To apply for a passport, individuals must present:

• Proof of citizenship (e.g., certified birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
• Valid photo ID with signature
• All original documents
• Payment (passport fees via check/money order to the U.S. Department of State; processing/photo fees via cash)

For more information, call (956) 681-1450.

Parking is available at the Downtown Garage: $1 for the first hour, $0.50/hour thereafter.

For full details about REAL ID, visit dhs.gov/real-id.