REAL ID Georgia: What You Need to Know

Background on REAL ID

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission to enhance security standards for state-issued identification documents. This federal mandate established minimum security standards for driver's licenses and ID cards that will be accepted for federal purposes. In Georgia, any permanent driver's license or ID card issued after 2012 is already REAL ID-compliant. These compliant credentials are marked with either a gold or black star in the upper right corner of the card.

Georgia leads the nation in REAL ID compliance with 99.9% of residents already having compliant credentials. This high compliance rate means most Georgians are already prepared for the upcoming federal enforcement deadline.

Upcoming Deadline

The REAL ID enforcement deadline is May 7, 2025. After this date, only REAL ID-compliant licenses, ID cards, or acceptable alternatives like passports will be accepted at TSA airport security checkpoints. Federal agencies will only accept compliant IDs for access to federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear facilities. Standard Georgia driver's licenses without the REAL ID star will no longer be valid for boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities.

Find more details on the upcoming deadline here: Read more.

How to Get a REAL ID in Georgia

If you don't yet have a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, or if you're new to Georgia, you must apply in person at a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) Customer Service Center. You'll need to bring original or certified identification documents that prove your identity and legal presence in the U.S., Georgia residency (two documents required), your Social Security number or documentation proving ineligibility, and any legal name changes, if applicable.

The Georgia DDS recommends using their online checklist tool to ensure you bring the correct documents to your appointment. More information can be found here.

Why Act Now

Although the deadline is in May 2025, officials recommend not waiting until the last minute to obtain a REAL ID. As the enforcement date approaches, longer wait times and limited appointment availability are expected. Acting early will help you avoid potential stress and travel disruptions. For Georgia residents, the good news is that the vast majority already have compliant credentials, meaning typically only new drivers and individuals moving to Georgia need to obtain a REAL ID-compliant document.

Additional insight into the potential travel impacts can be read here.

For more details or to schedule your REAL ID appointment, visit the Georgia DDS REAL ID page. Ensure you are ready for the 2025 deadline by acting now!