Starting May 7, 2025, a new rule will require all travelers in the United States to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card for domestic air travel and to access certain federal facilities. If you live in Arkansas, it’s important to ensure that your driver’s license or ID card meets these standards before the deadline.

REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a type of driver’s license or state ID card that complies with federal standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005. These standards are aimed at improving security, reducing identity theft, and making it harder for terrorists to use fake IDs. In Arkansas, a REAL ID-compliant ID has a gold star in the upper-right corner. This marks it as compliant with the federal standards required to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings, such as military bases and federal courthouses.

How to Check if Your Arkansas ID Is REAL ID-Compliant

To check if your Arkansas ID is REAL ID-compliant, simply look at the upper-right corner of your driver’s license or ID card. If you see a gold star, it means your ID is compliant with the REAL ID requirements.

If your card does not have a gold star, it is not REAL ID-compliant. Starting April 2022, Arkansas started issuing driver’s licenses and ID cards with the “Not for Federal Identification” marking for those that do not meet the federal standards. These non-compliant cards will not be valid for airport security checks or federal access after May 7, 2025.

Do You Need a REAL ID?

Not everyone needs a REAL ID. You will need one if you plan to do any of the following:

Fly domestically – You will need a REAL ID-compliant ID or another TSA-approved identification to board domestic flights within the U.S.

Enter federal facilities – Certain federal buildings, like federal courthouses and military bases, will require a REAL ID to gain access.

Enter nuclear power plants – If you need access to nuclear facilities, a REAL ID will be required.

However, if you do not need to fly or enter federal buildings or nuclear plants, you do not necessarily need a REAL ID. You can continue to use your regular driver’s license or ID card for day-to-day activities.

How to Get a REAL ID in Arkansas

To get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID in Arkansas, you need to visit your local Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) office. Here’s how to get started:

Prepare the required documents – You will need:

A proof of identity, such as a valid U.S. passport or a birth certificate.

A proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or a tax return.

Proof of Arkansas residency, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement.

Schedule an appointment – Visit the Arkansas DFA website or a local office to schedule an appointment. It’s important to plan ahead, as the offices can get busy, especially as the deadline approaches.

Visit the DMV – Bring all required documents with you when you visit the office. There is no extra fee for getting a REAL ID, but you will need to pay the regular fees for renewing or replacing your driver’s license.

Why It’s Important

The deadline is fast approaching, and you don’t want to risk being unable to fly or access federal facilities. It’s essential to make sure that your Arkansas ID is REAL ID-compliant by May 7, 2025. By checking your ID and taking the steps to upgrade it if necessary, you can ensure a smooth transition as the new rules take effect.

Make sure you’re ready for the 2025 deadline by checking your Arkansas ID and ensuring it meets the REAL ID requirements. If it’s not compliant, follow the steps to get a new, compliant card, so you’re prepared for domestic travel and federal access when the time comes. It’s better to take care of it now, rather than rushing as the deadline nears.