LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005, now 22 years later every Kentuckian 18 years or older will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification to fly domestically or gain access to certain federal facilities. The federal act establishes security standards for state-issued identification.

What You Need To Know

  • Kentuckians will need to get REAL ID in six months

  • Federal enforcement date is May 7, 2025

  • REAL ID is required for domestic travel and for entrance into certain federal facilities

  • The Real ID Act was passed in 2005

The deadline to have a REAL ID is May 7, 2025. To apply for a REAL ID driver’s license, permit or ID card, Kentuckians need to visit a Driver Licensing Regional Office and have:

  • proof of identity
  • proof of social security
  • two proofs of residency

“As we near the REAL ID enforcement date, Team Kentucky wants to encourage Kentuckians to gather the necessary documents and apply early,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray, D-Ky. “Even if you rarely fly, having a REAL ID helps keep your options open should you need to travel by air within the U.S. or visit a military base after enforcement begins on May 7, 2025.”

Residents can renew licenses up to six months before the expiration date. If a person is ineligible for renewal, they can request an upgrade to a REAL ID for $15 while retaining their current expiration date.

The cost of REAL ID licenses is $24 for four-year and $48 for eight-year licenses. Kentuckians can also get a driver’s license or ID that is not REAL ID-compliant for $21.50 for a four years and $43 for one lasting eight years.

Ray Williams, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Federal Security Director for Kentucky, said, “TSA is working closely with our state licensing and airport partners to encourage residents to obtain theirs before the deadline to avoid travel disruptions.” 

A Kentucky REAL ID is not valid for international travel.

“Our priority at the airport is to offer a seamless and efficient travel experience,” said Eric Frankl, president and CEO at Blue Grass Airport. “Obtaining your REAL ID before the deadline plays a significant role in ensuring you won’t face any disruptions to your travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to act now to obtain the proper identification and help us maintain a smooth and safe travel experience as we transition to REAL ID compliance in May 2025.”

Kentuckians can schedule appointments at a regional office online but should take the IDocument Quiz or review the list of valid documentation to avoid delays when getting to the appointment. The TSA also has a full list of approved credentials online.

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