REAL ID enforcement goes into effect one year from today

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)- Beginning May 7, 2025, REAL ID will be enforced for anyone 18 years and older that plans to fly domestically, enter nuclear power plants or visit certain Federal Facilities.

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 as a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission that the Federal Government “sets standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as drivers licenses” The Act established minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet the act’s minimum standards.

REAL ID compliant cards will have a marking on the upper top portion of the card with some variation of a star.

If the card does not have one of these markings it is not REAL ID compliant and will not be accepted as proof of identity to board commercial aircraft. Travelers on domestic flights who do not present a REAL ID compliant license or acceptable alternative such as a passport, State-issued Enhanced Drivers License, or Permanent Resident card will not be permitted through the security checkpoint.

To get a REAL ID, residents should visit their state’s driver’s license agency website to find out what documentation is required. At a minimum, the following documentation must be provided:

• Full legal Name
• Date of birth
• Social Security Number
• Two proofs of address
• Lawful Status

States may also impose additional requirements. All 50 states, the District of Columbia and the 5 territories of the United states are REAL ID compliant and are issuing REAL ID compliant drivers licenses and IDs.

To learn more about REAL ID and its implementation, visit the Department of Homeland Security FAQ page .

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