KENTUCKY, USA — There are only a few weeks left to upgrade your license or state ID so you can travel within the United States.
The federal REAL ID deadline is in less than a month, on May 7, 2025.
When REAL ID enforcement is implemented, Kentucky driver’s licenses, permits, or identification cards without a black star will be ineligible for use at airport security checkpoints for commercial air travel in the United States or at federal facilities that require ID, such as the White House or military bases.
Kentucky has been issuing REAL IDs since 2020. Because Kentucky is a voluntary state, you can choose between a standard license and a REAL ID; simply renewing your license does not imply that you are carrying a REAL ID compliant card.
According to Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) officials, approximately 36% of Kentucky identification holders, or 1.31 million people, have switched to REAL ID.
That means nearly 2.3 million Kentuckians continue to carry non-compliant IDs that they will be unable to use on domestic flights.
According to KYTC spokesperson Naitore Djigbenou, many people who do not have a REAL ID may plan to use a different form of identification when they visit airports.
“Some Kentuckians may already have another acceptable form of REAL ID, like a passport, U.S. passport card or military ID, to maintain travel and access benefits once federal enforcement begins,” according to Djigbenou.
This summer, if travelers at airports across America attempt to use an ID that is not REAL ID-compliant, they will be turned away at security.
Natalie Ciresi Chaudoin, spokesperson for Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, stated that the airport encourages travelers to be mindful during their summer vacations.
“It’s best for travelers to plan ahead and allow ample time for REAL ID processing if they have a flight on or soon after the deadline date,” Chaudoin informed the audience.
A new Kentucky license renewal requirement has also caused delays at driver’s license offices across the Bluegrass State. Starting January 1, drivers must take an eye exam when renewing their license.
When is the REAL ID deadline?
The deadline is May 7, 2025. On that day, TSA agents at airports and security at federal buildings across the country will no longer accept non-REAL ID documents as proof of identity, such as a standard driver’s license.
Could the REAL ID deadline be postponed again?
Originally, the law required a switch to REAL IDs by 2008, but that deadline has been pushed back several times. Most recently, in December 2022, the deadline was pushed back two years.
According to TSA officials, only about 56% of driver’s licenses and IDs in circulation nationwide are REAL ID-compliant, and officials are unsure whether a significant number of new REAL IDs will be issued on time.
In September, the TSA proposed a two-year transition period beginning in May. It suggested that agencies would start “enforcement in phases” for anyone attempting to use their ID for federal purposes, such as getting through airport security.
While the TSA proposal would keep REAL ID’s May 7, 2025 deadline, it would include a two-year transition period during which agencies would begin to enforce in phases.
It is unclear what the “phased enforcement approach” to REAL IDs will look like, but one example floated in the proposal is that agents could issue “warnings” on a three-strike system, allowing travelers to pass through security with a non-compliant ID a few times before being barred.
How can I get a REAL ID in Kentucky?
To obtain a REAL ID, you will need to bring a few pieces of documentation to any driver licensing regional office in Kentucky. Here’s what you’ll need:
- One document that establishes identity, date of birth, and proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence, or other lawful U.S. status. A birth certificate will suffice for most people.
- Your Social Security number (card not required) or evidence of SSN ineligibility.
- Two documents to establish proof of residence in Kentucky, such as a utility bill, paycheck stub, or mortgage payment
If your name, date of birth, or gender is different from what if displayed on your identity, you must show legal proof of the changes, such as a certified marriage certificate, court order or amended birth certificate.
The Kentucky Department of Motor Vehicles strongly advises you to schedule an appointment, as some locations have limited space for walk-ins. Click here to book an appointment online.
How can I tell if I already have a REAL ID?
If you’ve received a new driver’s license in the last few years, you may already have a REAL ID and are unaware of it.
A small black star in the top right corner of your ID is a good indicator that it is a Kentucky-issued REAL ID. If your ID has a star in the corner, it is most likely a real ID.
If you are still unsure whether your current identification card is REAL ID compliant, contact the Kentucky Department of Motor Vehicles or a regional office. Click here to find the nearest driver’s license office.
Do kids need a REAL ID to fly?
Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling with a companion, according to TSA. However, the child’s companion will need to have a REAL ID.
Will my passport work instead of a REAL ID card?
Yes! If you are traveling internationally, you will still need your passport. However, if you are traveling within the U.S., you only need one valid form of identification — either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.
