Is your Texas driver's license a Real ID? What to know before the May 2025 deadline

Marley Malenfant , Austin American-Statesman
Updated ·2 min read

The next time you’re at the DPS, you might want to consider getting a Real ID.

You might be asking what a Real ID is. Is it just renewing your driver's license?

Here's what you need to know before the May 2025 deadline.

What is a Real ID?

The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, sets security standards for issuing sources of identification, such as driver's licenses. Congress passed the REAL ID Act in response to 9/11.

Texas began issuing Real ID compliant cards on October 10, 2016. These cards are marked with a gold circle with an inset star located in the upper right-hand corner.

Is a Real ID required to fly domestically?

For now, it is not mandatory. By May 7, 2025, all states must comply with Real ID standards. After that date, a Real ID or another acceptable form of federal identification, like a passport, will be required to board domestic flights.

How to get a Real ID in Texas

According to Texas.Gov, you can apply for a new Real ID-compliant Texas driver's license or ID in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety office. You may be eligible to renew your existing Texas driver's license or ID online.You can still use your current, unexpired Texas driver's license or ID to drive and for non-federal ID purposes. When it’s time to renew your driver's license or ID, you’ll get one that is Real ID-compliant.

Does a Real ID replace a passport?

Real IDs work for domestic travel but can’t replace a passport for international flights. Passports are still required for venturing beyond U.S. borders.

What does a Real ID look like?

If you look at your current Texas driver's license, it should have a gold star at the top-right corner of the ID. Your current Texas driver's license or ID is RealID-compliant if it has a gold star in the top right corner. If it doesn’t have a gold star, you’ll get the gold star on your next renewal or request a replacement card.

Texas REAL ID. By May 7, 2025, all states must comply by REAL ID standards.
Texas REAL ID. By May 7, 2025, all states must comply by REAL ID standards.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: You'll need a Real ID in Texas by 2025. Here's how to get one