Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers in the  United States will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. In Alabama, this means that your driver’s license or ID card must have a gold star in the upper-left corner to be considered REAL ID-compliant.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a driver’s license or identification card that meets federal standards set by the REAL ID Act. These standards are designed to enhance security and prevent identity fraud. In Alabama, a REAL ID-compliant card features a gold star in the upper-left corner.

How to Check if Your Alabama ID is REAL ID-Compliant

To determine if your Alabama driver’s license or ID card is REAL ID-compliant, look at the upper-left corner:

Gold Star Present: If you see a gold star, your card is REAL ID-compliant.

Blank Space or “Not for Federal Identification”: If the space is blank or reads “Not for Federal Identification,” your card is not REAL ID-compliant. Starting April 25, 2022, non-compliant cards will display this message.

Do You Need a REAL ID?

You will need a REAL ID-compliant card if you plan to:

Fly Domestically: Board commercial flights within the United States.

Access Federal Facilities: Enter federal buildings that require identification.

Enter Nuclear Facilities: Access nuclear power plants.

If you do not need to do these activities, a standard driver’s license or ID card may suffice.

How to Obtain a REAL ID-Compliant Card in Alabama

To get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card in Alabama:

Gather Required Documents: You will need:

Proof of Identity and Date of Birth: Examples include a certified birth certificate or valid U.S. passport.

Proof of Social Security Number: Such as a Social Security card or W-2 form.

Proof of Alabama Residency: Two documents showing your name and current Alabama address, like utility bills or bank statements.

Schedule an Appointment: Visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s website to make an appointment at a local driver’s license examining office.

Visit the DMV: Bring your documents to the appointment. There is no additional fee for a REAL ID; the standard renewal or replacement fee applies.

Important Considerations

Processing Time: It can take up to 30 days to receive your REAL ID in the mail.

No Additional Tests: Obtaining a REAL ID does not require additional driving or written tests.

Non-REAL ID Cards: If you choose not to obtain a REAL ID, your driver’s license or ID card will be marked “Not for Federal Identification” and will not be accepted for federal identification purposes after May 7, 2025.

With the deadline approaching, it’s important to ensure your Alabama driver’s license or ID card is REAL ID-compliant if you plan to travel domestically or access federal facilities after May 7, 2025. By following the steps outlined above, you can obtain a REAL ID and avoid any disruptions to your travel plans.