FRANKFORT, Ky. — Starting May 7, 2025, in exactly one year, Kentuckians will need a REAL ID driver's license or identity credential to board U.S. commercial flights and access certain military bases or federal buildings requiring identification.

“We want Kentuckians to be able to board a domestic flight or visit a loved one stationed on a military base without any snags in their plans, and taking the time now to make sure you have a form of REAL ID to ensure you can get to where you need to go,” said Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky. “With many acceptable forms of REAL ID available, like a REAL ID driver’s license, military ID or passport, Kentuckians have several options to travel.”

Kentuckians can request state-issued REAL ID driving and identity credentials at any Driver Licensing Regional Office operated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). The KYTC said 1 million Kentuckians have already opted for a REAL ID license or ID card.

The transportation cabinet added federal authorities will also accept a valid passport or passport card, military ID or Department of Defense ID in addition to REAL ID.

A Kentucky REAL ID displays a black cutout star while a standard ID features the Kentucky Unbridled Spirit logo or the words "NOT FOR REAL ID PURPOSES." More on the differences can be found on drive.ky.gov. 

“We don’t want anyone to get grounded by having the wrong ID and miss that important flight to a wedding or access onto a base to watch your child’s football game,” Transportation Secretary Jim Gray said. “Applying for a REAL ID at one of our regional offices requires documentation, so now is the perfect time to start gathering those before visiting an office. REAL ID driver’s licenses can be requested whether or not you are due to renew.”  

Kentuckians can renew their driver's license up to six months before the printed expiration date, the transportation cabinet said. Those who are not in their renewal window but want a REAL ID can upgrade their card for $15 while keeping the same expiration date.

The KYTC said after May 7, 2025, a standard license can still be used for the following:

• Driving
• Proof of identity, age and residence 
• Voting
• Age-restricted purchases such as alcohol
• Access to federal facilities such as Social Security offices and Veterans Administration hospitals

The transportation cabinet said a four-year, REAL ID-compliant driver’s license is $24 while an eight-year license is $48. Standard licenses are $21.50 (four years) and $43 (eight years). 

A full list of Transportation Security Administration (TSA)-approved credentials can be found on its website. To make an appointment or find your nearest office, visit drive.ky.gov.