08-04-2025
Alabama's Star ID to go into effect in May, according to ALEA
MONTGOMERY, Ala. () — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is reminding Alabama residents that the REAL ID Act, also known as the STAR ID, is expected to go into effect on May 7.
ALEA says the REAL ID Act means Alabama citizens planning to fly domestic in the United States or enter certain federal facilities must have a REAL ID-compliant driver license or anotheracceptable form of identification, including a passport.
'Currently, citizens who fly domestic are able to use their regular driver licenses or other photoidentity cards issued by their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to board a plane,'said Holley Cook, Director of ALEA's Driver License Division. 'However, the REAL IDAct changes this. If you plan to use your state-issued ID or driver license to fly within the it must be REAL ID compliant after May 7, 2025. In Alabama, the REAL ID is known as aSTAR ID.'
According to ALEA, this law was passed in 2005 with an aim to enhance the security of state-issued identification documents in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
'The STAR ID and the REAL ID Act ensures the safe and secure identification of not onlyAlabamians, but citizens across the country,' said Hal Taylor, ALEA Secretary. 'While theSTAR ID is only one of a variety of acceptable identification options, we strongly encourageindividuals choosing to fly within the U.S. to take this step and obtain a STAR ID. Having aSTAR ID well before your travel date will guarantee a smooth and worry-free experience.'
STAR IDs were offered to Alabamians statewide in 2012 to confirm those wishing to obtain an ID were able to before the federal deadline.
ALEA says while a STAR ID is optional, travelers will need some form of federally accepted identification to board a domestic flight in the U.S., including a valid U.S. passport or other approved ID.
'If you don't plan to fly or plan on visiting certain federal facilities, including some military installations, then a STAR ID is not necessary,' said Cook. 'Your regular Alabama driver license will continue to be valid for driving, voting, and other everyday activities. It is completely up to the individual if they wish to get a STAR ID or not.'
Those seeking more information about the STAR ID can visit ALEA's website or reach out to their nearest driver license exam office.
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