So what does that mean for us?

Some states are already REAL ID compliant, meaning they have worked with the Federal Government (I mean it’s been 16 years.) Real ID Driver’s Licenses will have one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not compliant with the REAL ID Act:

Some states are currently working to get REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses issued to current holders. They may mail REAL ID DL cards to verified DL holders or have you log into your State’s Driver’s License authority.

US Passports can also be used as an alternative to REAL IDs

*REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings or other international travel. For more information on other acceptable forms of identification for boarding aircraft, please visit TSA’s website at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

You have about 2 years and your state may be already getting on board with REAL ID requirements- so don’t go into a panic about it. Once we get closer to the date, say by February 7th, if your state has not contacted you or given you REAL ID information, visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID.

REAL IDs WILL BE REQUIRED BY MAY 7TH 2005 visit the Department of Homeland Security FAQs for more information