07-05-2025
How Real ID Ready is Colorado?
(COLORADO) — After almost two decades, the REAL ID deadline takes effect Wednesday, May 7, and Colorado is one of the leading states when it comes to REAL ID Ready preparedness.
Colorado has been a mandatory REAL ID state since 2013, meaning that 100% of those eligible for a REAL ID in Colorado have received a REAL ID-compliant credential at either their initial issuance or renewal. So far, Colorado has one of the highest rates, with 96% of all driver's licenses and identification cards issued in Colorado being REAL-ID compliant.
'Colorado has led the way in ensuring our residents are REAL ID ready,' Governor Polis said. 'Thanks to the leadership at the DMV and the commitment of Coloradans, we are proud to be fully prepared for this important national security milestone, and this success highlights our state's proactive approach to modernization and public service.'
The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005, establishing minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards to create more secure credentials for national security, fraud mitigation, and identity theft purposes.
'Colorado DMV staff have worked diligently for over a decade to ensure a smooth transition to REAL ID,' DMV Senior Director Electra Bustle said. 'We're proud that Colorado is ahead of the curve, and we thank our customers for helping make this effort a success.'
Starting May 7, TSA will not accept a non-REAL ID-compliant credential to board a flight.
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