REAL ID Deadline Nearly Here: What GA Needs To Know

GEORGIA — The deadline for Georgia travelers to get a REAL ID is next month, and time and opportunity to get one is running out.

Starting on May 7, residents will need a REAL ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings, if they don't have a passport or other approved form of identification.

"The REAL ID deadline is fast approaching, please ensure that your state IDs are compliant," Georgia emergency management officials said Tuesday.

The Georgia Department of Driver Services said the Peach State was 99.9 percent compliant as of late March. At the time, the DDS said new drivers and anyone relocating to Georgia needed to secure a Real ID.

Here's what you need to know in Georgia:

Who needs a REAL ID?

Georgia residents who are age 18 and older must show a REAL ID, a passport or other federally-approved identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings when enforcement begins on May 7.

The REAL ID is similar to a regular state identification card or driver's license, but has a small gold or black star in the upper right hand corner.

Federal agencies, including the TSA, will begin REAL ID enforcement on May 7. Agencies may choose to phase in enforcement, but TSA officials have been urging people to upgrade their licenses sooner rather than later "to facilitate a smooth transition."

The REAL ID Act of 2005 does not affect those who only need their ID for driving purposes or identification and does not apply to those younger than age 18.

A passport or valid U.S. passport card can still be used to fly domestically and internationally.

What do I need to get a REAL ID?

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.

While Georgia requires residents seeking a REAL ID to visit their local customer service centers, applicants can pre-apply online with the Georgia Department of Driver Services.