As the deadline for REAL ID enforcement draws near, Georgia residents are encouraged to ensure their driver’s licenses or ID cards are compliant by May 7, 2025.
The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) reported in March that the state boasts a remarkable 99.9% REAL ID compliance among its residents, meaning that the vast majority of individuals already possess the required credentials.
Typically, only new drivers or those relocating to Georgia will need to secure a REAL ID-compliant document.
The REAL ID is a federal initiative introduced following the passage of the REAL ID Act in 2005, meant to enhance security standards for state-issued IDs and licenses.
This change was recommended by the 9/11 Commission, emphasizing the necessity for stricter ID protocols at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints, federal facilities, and sensitive sites, including nuclear power plants.
In Georgia, any permanent driver’s license or ID card issued after 2012 already meets REAL ID requirements.
Post-May 7, 2025, travelers should be aware that federal agencies, including the TSA, will only accept REAL ID-compliant licenses or ID cards for access to critical areas such as airport security checkpoints, federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear facilities.
A compliant ID can be identified by a gold or black star located in the upper right corner.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs), issued by states including Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont, are also acceptable options, even if they do not display the star.
For those who may try to board a flight with a non-compliant state ID, there can be significant repercussions.
Travelers without acceptable identification—such as a passport—could face delays, additional security screenings, or in worst cases, denial of entry into the security checkpoint.
Acceptable alternative forms of ID include U.S. passports, DHS Trusted Traveler cards (such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI), Canadian provincial driver’s licenses, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Cards.
To obtain a REAL ID in Georgia, applicants must visit a Georgia DDS Customer Service Center in person, bringing a set of necessary documents which include:
– Proof of Identity, such as a certified birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization.
– Proof of Social Security Number, verified through a Social Security card, W-2 form, SSA-1099 form, or a pay stub that displays the individual’s full name and Social Security Number.
– Proof of Georgia Residency, requiring two documents, dated within the past six months, like a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement.
– Proof of Lawful Status, for non-citizens, requiring immigration documents that confirm lawful presence in the U.S.
As the May 2025 deadline approaches, it is essential to plan ahead, as appointments for obtaining REAL IDs may become scarce.
Potential applicants should ensure that all documents are original or certified copies and are in English.
For additional guidance, individuals can access online resources at dds.georgia.gov to complete necessary forms and verify required documentation before visiting the service center.
For any further questions or assistance, the Georgia DDS can be reached at 1-800-436-7442.
It’s crucial to remember that if you already possess a valid passport, you do not need a REAL ID to travel by air.
However, a passport must be presented if your driver’s license is not compliant.
Furthermore, children under 18 are not required to show identification when traveling with an adult who does have appropriate ID.
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