The REAL ID Act Soon to Take Effect

On May 7th, 2025, the REAL ID Act of 2005 will take effect. It mandates that anyone who is 18 years of age or older must have a REAL ID or another federally issued photo ID, like a passport, in order to enter certain Federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants, as well as to board commercial flights within the United States. REAL IDs were first issued by the Department of Safety and Homeland Security on July 1, 2019. 1.6 million of Tennessee’s 5.8 million legitimate credentials do not yet comply with REAL ID. To prevent the possible surge of clients to Driver Services Centers, Tennessee residents are urged to make their decision prior to the implementation date. REAL ID applications must be submitted in person, per federal law. You can apply for a REAL ID at a Driver Services Center or a participating County Clerk if you currently possess a Tennessee driver’s license or identification. You must apply for a REAL ID at a Driver Services Center if you do not currently possess a Tennessee driver’s license or identification.