
Last Chance to Get Your REAL ID in Kentucky: The Deadline Is Looming!
If haven't gotten your REAL ID yet, you're quickly running out of time.
WHY DO I NEED A REAL ID?
While there's no requirement to get a REAL ID for normal, everyday driving purposes, you absolutely must have one if you plan to board a commercial flight here in the United States, access a military base or any other federal facility that requires proper identification.
Last week, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued the final REAL ID guidance and confirmed that enforcement will begin in just a few months. Starting May 7th, 2025, you must have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license to do the things listed above.
Here's the deal. REAL IDs have been a work in progress for the last twenty years. Congress actually passed the REAL ID Act way back in 2005. The measure, which was a direct response to the attacks of September 11th, was passed to enhance security standards.
This year, those enhanced standards will finally be in place and enforced.

WHERE TO GET A REAL ID IN KENTUCKY?
If you need to obtain your REAL ID, you can visit a Driver Licensing Regional Office. There are over thirty such offices spread across the Commonwealth. For example, I live in Owensboro and we have a regional office just outside the city limits. It's located at 2620 Kentucky Highway 81 inside the Daviess County Operations Center.
CLICK HERE to find the Driver Licensing Regional Office nearest you.
Walk-ins are accepted but appointments are strongly recommended. In advance of your appointment, it's suggested that you review the document requirements necessary to obtain a REAL ID. To review that list of acceptable documents, CLICK HERE!
And, remember! There is a new law in effect in Kentucky that requires you to pass a vision test if you are seeking a renewal of your driver's license.
CAN I FLY WITHOUT A REAL ID?
The only people who will be able to fly without a REAL ID are those who have a valid U.S. passport, DHS trusted traveler card (e.g. Global Entry), or a U.S. Department of Defense ID.
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