The REAL ID Act Takes New Guidelines Beginning May 7th

The REAL ID Act of 2005 set basic security requirements for the manufacturing and issue of licenses. These guidelines offer an extra degree of protection to safeguard your identity. It also makes it illegal for federal agencies to accept ID cards and driver’s licenses from states that don’t adhere to the Act’s minimal requirements. Beginning Wednesday, May 7th, 2025, everyone must have a REAL ID or another approved Federally-issued ID, such as a passport, to enter certain Federal buildings, military sites and nuclear power plants or board commercial aircraft within the United States. Obtaining a REAL ID compliant license or identification card is not mandatory for Tennessee residents. To drive, vote, buy alcohol or cigarettes, go to the post office, go to a hospital, access federal courts, or apply for or get federal benefits like social security or veterans’ benefits, you do not need a REAL ID. The purpose of the REAL ID is for boarding domestic flights and to enter federal facilities or military bases that require it. You can visit tn.gov/safety/driver-services for more information and to schedule your appointment for a REAL ID.