The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is reminding residents that the REAL ID Act, also known as the STAR ID, will go into effect on May 7. This means that Alabama citizens planning to fly domestically or enter certain federal facilities must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport. The law was passed in 2005 to enhance the security of identification documents after the 9/11 attacks.
Director Holley Cook emphasizes the importance of obtaining a STAR ID for those planning to fly within the U.S. after May 7, 2025. While a STAR ID is optional, travelers will need a federally accepted form of identification to board a domestic flight, such as a U.S. passport. The STAR ID was offered statewide in Alabama in 2012 to ensure residents had ample time to obtain one before the federal deadline.
Those who do not plan to fly or visit certain federal facilities may not need a STAR ID but will still require a valid form of identification for everyday activities. ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor encourages individuals to consider getting a STAR ID for added convenience and security.
For more information, residents can visit ALEA’s website or contact their nearest driver license exam office. Failure to comply with the REAL ID Act may result in difficulties traveling domestically or entering federal facilities.
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