REAL ID Deadline Down To 7 Months: 5 Things To Know In GA

GEORGIA — Less than seven months remain before Peach State residents must show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to fly within the U.S. unless they have other approved identification.

The deadline to get a REAL ID is May 7, 2025. After that date, federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, will no longer accept identification that does not meet the new standards.

How Do I Know If I Have A REAL ID?

A REAL ID is distinguishable from a regular Georgia driver’s license because it has a gold or black star in the upper right corner. That indicates that a person’s citizenship and legal residence status have been verified.

When Would I Need To Show A Real ID?

The REAL ID Act of 2005 was passed by Congress in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. In addition to the stars, REAL ID cards are built with technology that makes them more difficult to forge, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other documentation will be needed to board domestic flights, enter nuclear power plants, or access certain federal buildings.

Where Can I Get A REAL ID, And What Do I Need?

REAL ID cards are issued at driver’s licensing stations in Georgia. In general, those seeking them need to provide documentation showing their legal name, date of birth, Social Security number or proof of lawful status to be in the United States, and two proofs of the address of their principal residence.

Acceptable REAL ID documents are as follows, according to driver services:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of name change (any and all name changes)
• Proof of social security number
• Proof of Georgia residency
• Proof of identity and lawful status (for non-U.S. citizens)

An ID in Georgia costs $32 and expires after eight years.

What If I Don't Get A REAL ID?

REAL IDs in Georgia will be mandatory, effective May 7, 2025.

The Transportation Safety Administration will not require children younger than age 18 to provide identification when traveling with an adult companion within the U.S., but the companion must have acceptable identification.

The REAL ID is not a substitute for a passport required for international travel, and it also does not affect the ability to vote or register to vote, applications for federal benefits, enter federal facilities that do not require identification, obtain medical care or participate in police proceedings or investigations.

Should I Wait Until 2025?

If you want to wait until the new year, know you could find longer lines and more competition in licensing centers that require appointments.