The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, brought about stricter standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards to enhance security and reduce identity theft. Starting in May 2025, Georgia residents will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID to board domestic flights or access federal facilities. If you don’t have a REAL ID by this time, your regular Georgia driver’s license will not be valid for these purposes. This article will explain everything you need to know about the REAL ID process, what documents you need, and how to obtain your REAL ID in Georgia before the deadline.
What is the REAL ID Act?
The REAL ID Act was established to set security standards for state-issued IDs and driver’s licenses. These standards are meant to make it harder to counterfeit identification and make it easier to verify the identity of those receiving these IDs. The goal is to improve national security, particularly when it comes to air travel and access to federal buildings.
A REAL ID-compliant card is marked with a gold star in the upper-right corner. Starting in May 2025, this star will be essential for Georgia residents who need to:
- Board domestic flights: Your regular Georgia driver’s license will no longer be accepted for air travel within the U.S.
- Enter federal buildings or military bases: Federal facilities such as federal courthouses, military bases, and some nuclear power plants will require a REAL ID.
If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant card by May 2025, you will need to use an alternative form of ID for air travel, such as a U.S. passport or U.S. military ID.
Is Your Georgia ID REAL ID-Compliant?
First, check the upper-right corner of your Georgia driver’s license or state-issued ID. If it has a gold star, then your ID is already REAL ID-compliant, and you don’t need to do anything further.
If you do not see a gold star, your Georgia driver’s license or state ID is not REAL ID-compliant, and you will need to upgrade it before May 2025.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a REAL ID in Georgia
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
To apply for a REAL ID, you’ll need to provide several original documents to prove your identity, legal presence in the U.S., Social Security number, and Georgia residency. These documents are required to ensure that your identity is verified and that your application meets federal standards.
Here’s a list of the required documents:
- Proof of Identity:
- U.S. birth certificate (certified or original)
- U.S. passport (valid or expired within the last five years)
- U.S. Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Certificate of Citizenship
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN):
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- Pay stub with your SSN listed
- 1099 form
- Proof of Legal Presence (if applicable):
- U.S. birth certificate
- U.S. passport
- Permanent resident card (green card)
- Employment authorization document (EAD)
- Proof of Georgia Residency (Two Documents Required):
- Utility bills (electric, water, gas, etc.)
- Lease or mortgage statement
- Bank statement
- Paycheck stub
- Insurance documents
- Vehicle registration or title
Make sure to bring original documents—photocopies are not acceptable.
Step 2: Visit Your Local Georgia DDS Office
Once you’ve gathered all your documents, it’s time to head to your local Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office to apply for your REAL ID. You can schedule an appointment online to save time and avoid long lines, although walk-ins are also accepted.
At the DDS office, you’ll need to complete a form with your personal information and confirm that the documents you’ve provided are accurate. A staff member will review your documents, take a photo for your new ID, and verify your information.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
There is a fee for obtaining a REAL ID in Georgia. As of 2024, the fee for a REAL ID driver’s license is typically around $32 for a five-year license or $65 for a ten-year license. If you’re applying for a REAL ID state ID, the fee is usually $32.
You can pay the fee with cash, credit card, or debit card at the DDS office.
Step 4: Wait for Your REAL ID to Arrive
After submitting your application, your REAL ID will be processed, and you will typically receive your new driver’s license or state ID card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. While you wait for your REAL ID to arrive, your existing non-REAL ID Georgia driver’s license will remain valid until the new one arrives.
What if You Don’t Want a REAL ID?
If you choose not to obtain a REAL ID, your Georgia driver’s license will still be valid for driving and other state-related purposes. However, starting in May 2025, you won’t be able to use your regular driver’s license to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings and facilities. For these purposes, you’ll need to use an alternative form of identification, such as:
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- Military ID
- Other federally accepted IDs
You can continue using your current Georgia ID for all other purposes, including voting, accessing state services, and driving.
Why Should You Get a REAL ID Now?
With the May 2025 deadline fast approaching, it’s important to get your REAL ID as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute rush. The application process can take time, especially if you need to gather additional documents or visit a DDS office with a high volume of customers. By getting your REAL ID now, you’ll avoid potential delays and ensure that you have the proper identification when traveling or accessing federal facilities.
Additionally, some people may find that the process of applying for a REAL ID gives them an opportunity to update their personal information, such as a name change due to marriage or an address change. Now is a great time to make sure all of your information is accurate and up-to-date.
What Happens After May 2025?
Starting in May 2025, if you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, you will not be able to use it for the following purposes:
- Boarding domestic flights: A regular Georgia driver’s license or ID will no longer be valid for air travel.
- Entering federal buildings or military bases: You will need a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or other federally accepted identification to enter these facilities.
However, if you don’t need access to these federal services and just need your ID for state purposes, you can continue using your non-REAL ID driver’s license.
Final Thoughts
The REAL ID deadline of May 2025 is quickly approaching, and Georgia residents should take action now to ensure they have the proper documentation to meet the new federal identification requirements. With a REAL ID, you will be able to board domestic flights, enter federal facilities, and travel with peace of mind knowing that your identification meets federal standards.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for the changes ahead. Be sure to gather your documents, schedule your appointment, and apply for your REAL ID before the deadline to avoid any disruptions in your ability to travel and access federal services. Stay ahead of the game and ensure that you’re ready for the upcoming changes in 2025!
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.
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