You still have to time to get a Real ID license. Here’s what to know about the extension
Yes, you still have time to get a Real ID.
But by 2025, Tennesseans along with all Americans 18 and older must have a Real ID driver's license or a Real ID credential to board commercial flights and have access to certain federal facilities.
The new deadline is May 7, 2025.
Shortly before the new year, the Department of Homeland Security announced yet another extension to enforce the Real ID Act of 2005, which previously was set to start May 3, 2023.
Department of Homeland Security made the extension to allow states additional time to ensure residents have the correct documents to apply for Real ID, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which created significant backlogs at licensing agencies across the country.
Tennessee began issuing Real IDs in 2019. The state has issued more than two million of them, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reported last year.
Here’s what you need to know.
Do I need Real ID in Tennessee?
Beginning May 7, 2025, everyone age 18 or older in Tennessee and across the United States must have a Real ID to board commercial aircraft flights within the U.S., to access certain federal buildings or to enter nuclear facilities.
Real IDs are not mandatory, but if you opt to not get one, you will need to provide an alternate form of identification such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID to fly domestically and to gain access to certain federal facilities.
What is the Real ID license deadline?
The new deadline is May 7, 2025. If you haven't already done so, getting your Real ID now will help if there's a backlog closer to the deadline.
Can I still fly in the U.S. without a Real ID?
For now, you can still get on a plane without a Real ID. After the deadline, you will need a Real ID license or an acceptable alternate form of identification such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID to pass through federal security checkpoints, including those at U.S. airports.
Where do I apply for a Real ID?
First-time applications must be completed in person at a Driver Services Center or a participating county clerk's office. A full list of participating locations in Knox County and throughout Tennessee, plus more application information can be found at tn.gov/tnrealid/get-real-id.
How much is a Real ID in Tennessee?
$28. The cost is the same as standard Tennessee licenses and ID renewals. However, there will be an additional fee depending on your license classification if the Real ID is obtained outside of the renewal period.
What do you need for a Real ID?
You will need one proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, a valid Social Security number and two proofs of Tennessee residency. All documents must be originals or certified. Photocopies will not be accepted. A complete list of acceptable documents is found at tn.gov/tnrealid/requirements.
Acceptable documents to be used in conjunction with one another include, but are not limited to:
U.S. birth certificate from State Office of Vital Statistics or equivalent with a raised and/or colored seal
Valid U.S. passport or passport card
U.S. certificate or consular report of birth abroad
Valid Permanent Resident Card issued by DHS or INS
Valid foreign passport with valid U.S. visa and approved I-94 form
Certificate of Citizenship issued by DHS
W-2 tax form
1099 tax form
Social Security card
Payroll check stub
Home utility bill
Current Tennessee vehicle registration or certificate of title
Current Tennessee Voter Registration card
IRS tax return
Bank statement
Why do I need a Real ID?
The Real ID Act of 2005 established minimum security standards for license issuance and production after the 9/11 attacks. A Real ID will be required for commercial flights within the U.S. and to enter federal facilities and military bases that require ID.
How do I know if I have a Real ID?
Real IDs are marked with a gold star in the right corner and include heightened security features that make them difficult to copy.
What if I don’t have a Real ID?
Even without a Real ID, you will still be able to:
Drive
Vote
Purchase alcohol/cigarettes
Visit the post office
Access federal courts
Access hospitals
Apply for/receive federal benefits (Social Security, veterans benefits, etc.)
What can I use to fly if I don't have a Real ID?
You will be able to board domestic commercial flights without a Real ID if you show a valid passport or state-issued enhanced driver’s license offered in other locations (not Tennessee), Veteran Health Identification Card, or one of the following:
U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
HSPD-12 PIV card
Foreign government-issued passport
Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
Transportation worker identification card
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
What are Real ID concerns?
The Real ID law and process has faced some critics. The first application must be done in person and requires more documentation than simply renewing a driver’s license.
The American Civil Liberties Union has argued the law turns state-issued drivers' licenses into a form of national identification – which the organization opposes – and that Real IDs present privacy concerns.
For more information regarding Real ID requirements, benefits and the Real ID Act of 2005, go to tn.gov/tnrealid.
Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com. Twitter @dturner1208.
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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Real ID Tennessee deadline is in 2025. Here's what you need to get one
