02-05-2025
Waiting room fills up in Dothan troopers' office as Star ID deadline approaches
DOTHAN, Ala. (WDHN) — It is less than a week away from the enforcement of the Real ID, and lines at the state troopers' office in Dothan are getting longer.
Time is slowly winding down before Alabama residents are forced to get their STAR ID.
This new form of identification stems from the Real ID Act, which was passed in 2005, and serves as another way to enhance security measures for residents seeking to fly domestically, enter military facilities, or access government buildings.
With the May 7th deadline just around the corner, anyone who does not have a STAR ID can expect to encounter problems.
'If they do not have the Star ID on their driver's license at the time they wish to travel, they won't be able to gain access onto that aircraft,' said ALEA Senior Trooper Kendra McKinney.
Throughout the day, many Wiregrass residents packed the Alea State Troopers' office, hoping to get their new form of ID before the deadline.
However, according to Senior Trooper Kendra McKinney, the deadline is not what people think it is.
'May 7th is not a deadline, it is just the enforcement date when it will be taking place,' McKinney said. 'There's nothing to worry about, you'll still have that chance. Unless you are planning to travel within the next three months, then yes, go ahead and try to get that star on your driver's license.'
For those still seeking to obtain their Star ID, they will need to visit a driver's license examiner's office.
Walk-ins are welcome at the ALEA office; however, the office recommends scheduling an appointment online.
To expedite the process for everyone involved, Trooper McKinney requests that all parties bring the necessary documents to the office.
'You'll need to have your birth certificate; that way, we can confirm your identity,' McKinney said. 'Along with your Social Security card, and two pieces of mail that show your residency within the state of Alabama.'
Trooper McKinney is also warning the public of a potential scam that claims people can apply for the Star ID online, when in fact, that is false.
The new identification can only be obtained in person.
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