“Secure, Trusted, And
Reliable,” STAR ID is part of a nationwide effort to improve the integrity and security of state-issued driver licenses and identification cards, which, in turn, will help fight terrorism and reduce fraud. In response to acts of terrorism committed against the United States, and in an effort to ensure the safety of citizens, Congress passed the REAL-ID Act of 2005, modifying federal laws
pertaining to security, authentication and issuance procedure standards for state driver licenses and identification cards. In order to comply with the requirements of this federal legislation, the Alabama Department of Public Safety has developed the STAR ID program. Yes, Alabama began a STAR I.D. pilot project in central Alabama Oct. 3, 2011, in the Driver License examining offices in
Montgomery, Autauga and Chilton counties, and began issuing STAR I.D. statewide in early 2012. Beginning May 3, 2023, all domestic flights will require flyers to hold a STAR ID or possess a passport. To see a list of all accepted documents visit TSA.
Some military installations are currently requiring a STAR ID to obtain access, it will depend on the facility. No, expected changes will be minor. STAR ID will have a gold star in the upper left corner to make them easily recognizable as Real-ID compliant. No, the final rule specifies that each individual can hold either a STAR ID driver license or a STAR ID identification card, but not both simultaneously. If you currently hold both, one will be cancelled during your next card issuance. Yes, you will have to pay for a duplicate. No, STAR ID is available only at the ALEA Driver License examining offices. There are offices located statewide Starting May 3, 2023, every air traveler will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of
identification for domestic air travel. A REAL ID compliant license is one that meets and is issued by a state which complies with, the REAL ID Act’s security standards.
Please see TSA’s list of acceptable forms of identification. Passengers who have licenses issued by a state that is compliant or that has an extension to
become compliant with REAL ID requirements may continue to use their licenses as usual. For a list of states already in compliance or with an extension visit DHS’s REAL ID. DHS continually updates this list as more states come into compliance or obtain extensions.
If you present utility bills to verify the address of your principal residence, and those bills are in your spouse's name, you must bring your marriage certificate. If utility bills are in your parent's name, you may use your birth certificate.
***Please note that this blog has been edited for July 2021 – as the requirement has been postponed to May 2023***
You may have heard talk about something called “REAL ID.” This blog will go through some frequently asked questions about N.C. REAL ID and will explain how you can be prepared for the changes coming to traveler identification requirements.
These new requirements will start being enforced on May 3, 2023.
Are you REAL ID ready?
On May 3, 2023, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
Find out if you’re REAL ID ready with our interactive tool!
- Are you planning to fly domestically or visit a Federal facility after May 3, 2023?
- Yes / Don't Know
- Does your Drivers License / ID have a star (and/or flag) or say "Enhanced"?
- Yes
You're REAL ID ready! You will need this ID to board domestic flights and may need this or another acceptable form of identification to visit federal facilities.
- No
- Do you have a passport?
- Yes
A passport is an acceptable form of identification and may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities.
- No
- Click here to see if you have one of these acceptable forms of identification that may also be used to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities (link will open in a new window). Do you have one of these?
- Yes
- These alternate forms of identification may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID at the airport to board domestic flights and when visiting federal facilities.
- No
You're not REAL ID ready! Important: if you want to board domestic flights or visit federal facilities beginning May 3, 2023 you must have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. Click on your state or territory in the map below to visit your local DMV to learn more.
- No
You might not need a REAL ID. Click on your state or territory in the map below to visit your local DMV to learn more.
Map out your path to REAL ID readiness by May 3, 2023.
Click on your home state or territory to make a plan with your local DMV to be REAL ID ready.
Select a state or territory: