Georgia’s REAL ID deadline is here. Will your license still work without it?
Federal agencies in Georgia, including the TSA, will strictly enforce the REAL ID requirements, beginning Wednesday, May 7.
Following this date, only REAL ID-compliant Georgia driver’s licenses or approved substitutes will be valid for boarding domestic flights and entering specific federal buildings.
How to know if you already have a Real ID in Georgia
Fox5 Atlanta reported last week that Georgia has already achieved 99.9% Real ID compliance, so most residents are already covered.
However, to make sure:
Look at the upper right corner of your Georgia driver’s license or ID card.
If there is a gold or black star, your ID is Real ID-compliant.
If there is no star, your ID is not Real ID-compliant and will not be accepted for federal purposes like air travel.
What happens if you don’t have a Real ID by the deadline?
You will not be allowed to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.
Additionally, you could face:
Additional screening
Delays
Denied access at TSA checkpoints
In Georgia, you can still use other accepted forms of ID such as a valid U.S. passport or enhanced driver’s license, and your current license remains valid for everyday activities like driving.
How to get a Real ID in Georgia:
Visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) Customer Service Center.
Bring the following documents:
Proof of your identity
Social Security number
Proof of Georgia residency (in other words, your utility bills, bank statements or voter registration card)
- $32 fee, paid in cash or by credit card
If you don’t have a Real ID, now is the time to get one to avoid travel disruptions or access issues to federal sites.
Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.
This story was originally published May 5, 2025 at 4:04 PM.
