REAL ID Countdown: How to Be Ready Before the May 2025 Deadline

Tennessee residents are being reminded to prepare for a major change in federal ID requirements. Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers will need a REAL ID or another form of federally approved identification, such as a passport, to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

The REAL ID Act of 2005 established minimum security standards for the issuance and production of state-issued driver licenses and identification cards. These standards are designed to protect individuals from identity theft and enhance the integrity of government-issued IDs. After the May 2025 deadline, federal agencies will no longer accept non-compliant IDs for identification purposes.

What You Can and Can't Do Without a REAL ID

While you don’t need a REAL ID to drive, vote, receive federal benefits, visit hospitals, access the post office, or buy age-restricted products like alcohol or cigarettes, you do need a REAL ID to:

• Board commercial flights within the U.S.
• Enter military bases
• Access federal buildings and facilities that require ID

How to Get Your REAL ID in Tennessee

Tennesseans can apply for a REAL ID at any Driver Services Center or participating County Clerk’s office if they already have a Tennessee driver license or ID. If you are new to the state or do not have a Tennessee-issued ID, you must visit a full-service Driver Services Center.

Applicants must present the following original or certified documents (photocopies are not accepted):

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Presence
• Proof of Full Social Security Number
• Two proofs of Tennessee residency, each from a different source, showing your current residential address. Documents must be current (issued within the last four months).

⚠️ If any document contains a name that differs from your current legal name, you must provide certified documents such as a marriage license or divorce decree to prove the name change.

Getting a REAL ID is particularly important for those who fly regularly, visit military families, or work in or around secure federal facilities.