In just six months, specifically May 7, 2025, every Kentuckian 18 years of age or older will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport to travel domestically and access certain federal facilities, including military bases.
To apply for a REAL ID driver’s license, permit or ID card, individuals must visit a Driver Licensing Regional Office and present one proof of identity, one proof of social security, and two proofs of residency. This requirement is part of the federal REAL ID Act, which aims to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification documents.
“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. “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.”
Kentucky residents can renew their license up to six months before the expiration date. Those ineligible for renewal can upgrade to a REAL ID for $15 while retaining their current expiration date. REAL ID licenses are available for $24 for four-year and $48 for eight-year credentials. A standard, non-compliant four-year license is $21.50, while an eight-year license costs $43.
“On May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older must have a Real ID or another form of acceptable identification,” said Ray Williams, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Federal Security Director for Kentucky. “TSA is working closely with our state licensing and airport partners to encourage residents to obtain theirs before the deadline to avoid travel disruptions.”
After the enforcement date, a standard-issue driver’s license will continue to be valid for driving and can be used as proof of identity, age, and residence for voting and age-restricted purchases, such as buying alcohol. Additionally, it will remain acceptable for accessing federal facilities, including Social Security offices and Veterans Administration hospitals. A Kentucky REAL ID is not valid for international travel.
A regional driver licensing office is located in Columbia at 363 Office Park Dr. #200. Call 502-564-1257 or go online for more information at drive.ky.gov. and to make an appointment.
By Tom Latek
Kentucky Today
