After 20 years of delay, Homeland Security says a REAL-ID to be required May 7, 2025
Homeland Security says you must have a REAL-ID to fly on May 7, 2025.
In 2005, in response to the September 11 attacks, Congress passed the Real ID Act of 2005. The act was initially planned to go into effect in 2008. Because of many issues, including push back from many states, there have been numerous extensions of the deadline. However, there are currently no indications that the current May 7, 2025 will be extended.
What is the Real ID needed for?
The Real ID Act establishes minimum state requirements for issuance of drivers’ licenses and state identification cards. The Real ID cards will be one of the documents accepted for those wanting to board local airline flights, enter federal government facilities, nuclear power plants, etc. A valid US passport and several other (less common) documents may also be used. If you don’t have a Real ID or an acceptable alternative, you may face delays, additional security screenings, and potentially be denied boarding. This requirement applies to all U.S. citizens and non-citizens 18 years of age and older.
States and US Territories are now required to accept only certain documents for those wishing to get drivers’ licenses and state ID cards. The issuing state or territory must capture a photograph of the applicant, store digital images of the documents presented by the applicant, and verify the documents directly with the authorities that issued them.
Once all verifications are completed, the applicant will receive a Real ID license or ID card. If your state license or ID has a gold star in the upper right corner, it’s a REAL ID-compliant document. You are the proud possessor of a golden ticket to ride. Mississippi has been issuing Real ID licenses since 2018, so quite a few Mississippians should have them.
What can I use for identification in place of a Real ID?
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Passport Card
- U.S. Military ID
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
How do I get a Real ID in Mississippi?
The preferred method for obtaining a REAL ID is to visit the local Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Service Bureau office. The Mississippi Driver Service Bureau is offering special Saturday appointments through early May to help people get their REAL IDs before the deadline.
- You will need to have:
- Original birth certificate: A certified copy is also acceptable.
- Original Social Security card or any official document with your Social Security number
- Two proofs of Mississippi residency: Examples include utility bills, bank statements, or voter registration cards.
You do not need a Real ID for driving, voting, receiving medical care, or entering local Social Security offices. However, if your license does not bear the gold star, and you cannot produce a valid passport or other acceptable document, you many not be allowed to board that next planned flight…or enter that nuclear plant or federal facility.
For more information: Mississippi Department of Public Safety Driver Service Bureau office
The New Albany Driver Service Bureau is at 1103 Bratton Rd. and is open from 8:00am – to 5:00pm, Monday – Friday.
The Tupelo Driver Service Bureau is at 589 Coley Rd., and is open from 8:00am – to 5:00pm, Monday – Friday.
