Federal government pushes back REAL ID deadline. Here’s what that means for Georgia residents

Chelsea Madden

The deadline for the full enforcement of REAL ID requirements has been extended by the Department of Homeland Security.

Now every state will have an additional two years to comply; the date moved from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025.

“DHS continues to work closely with U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories to meet REAL ID requirements,” said Alejandro N. Mayorkas, the secretary of homeland security. “This extension will give states needed time to ensure their residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card. DHS will also use this time to implement innovations to make the process more efficient and accessible. We will continue to ensure that the American public can travel safely.”

The extension is due to delays and backlogs associated with the pandemic.

What is a REAL ID?

Under the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, all 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and four of five U.S. territories covered by the REAL ID Act, must ensure residents 18 and older have a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card.

The Act came from a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission and the IDs allow the TSA to use added security measures when identifying travelers at checkpoints and screenings.

REAL IDs also incorporate special advanced technology to help TSA prevent insider fraud and other threats, such as the technology that screens passengers as low and high risk and links them to watchlists.

REAL ID in Georgia

In the Peach State, REAL ID is referred to as Secure ID. Under Georgia law, all applicants for a driver’s license or identification card must show original documentation for identity, residency and citizenship.

According to Georgia’s Department of Driver Services, the only visible difference from the current driver’s licenses and REAL IDs are gold or black star icons on the top right corner. This star will be shown on all REAL IDs.

If you have not obtained a REAL ID and need one, you’ll need to go to a Driver Services customer service center and bring the following with you:

  • Identity Document (one document): An original or certified document to prove who you are, such as a certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, I-551, etc.

  • Your full Social Security Number must be provided on the required online License/ID/Permit Form.

  • Two Documents showing Georgia residency: Documents like your utility bill must show a street address dated within the past six months.

For more information about REAL ID and to see if your license or identification card is updated, visit the REAL ID website. Georgia residents may also visit the Georgia Driver Service website.

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