Alabama Residents Urged to Prepare for Upcoming STAR ID Requirement Ahead of May 2025 Deadline
By Savannah Logan
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is reminding residents that beginning May 7, 2025, all air travelers age 18 and older will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. In Alabama, this federally compliant credential is known as the STAR ID. Those who do not have a valid U.S. passport or other federally accepted ID will need a STAR ID to fly within the United States or access select federal buildings, including some military installations.
“Currently, citizens who fly domestic are able to use their regular driver licenses or other photo identity cards issued by their state’s DMV to board a plane,” explained Holley Cook, Director of ALEA’s Driver License Division. “However, the REAL ID Act changes this. If you plan to use your state-issued ID or driver license to fly within the U.S., then it must be REAL ID compliant after May 7, 2025.”
The STAR ID is Alabama’s version of the federally compliant REAL ID. It meets the strict security standards set by the federal government and has been available since 2012, allowing residents plenty of time to prepare.
Although obtaining a STAR ID is optional, it is essential for anyone planning to fly or enter certain secure federal facilities without a passport. For everyday activities — like driving, voting, or local identification — a standard Alabama driver license or ID will remain valid.
STAR IDs can only be issued in person at Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Exam Offices. While county-operated license offices can provide renewals or duplicates, only ALEA exam offices can issue the STAR ID for the first time. Licenses or ID cards issued on or after April 25, 2022, that are not STAR ID compliant will be clearly marked with “Not for Federal Identification” at the top.
To obtain a STAR ID, applicants must present four original documents (photocopies are not accepted) to verify:
Identity and Date of Birth (one required):
- Valid U.S. Passport (unexpired)
- Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- Permanent Resident Card or other DHS-approved immigration documents
Note: If your name has changed from what’s listed on your birth certificate or passport, you must provide official proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Social Security Number (one required):
- Social Security Card
- W-2 Tax Form (current or prior year)
- Medicare/Medicaid Card (if SSN includes letter A)
- U.S. Military Form DD 214
Proof of Principal Residence (two required):
Examples include:
- Current Alabama Driver License or ID with correct address
- Voter Registration Card
- Utility Bill (within 90 days)
- Vehicle Registration
- Lease, mortgage, or property tax documents
- School enrollment forms or military orders
If the proof of residence documents are in a spouse or parent’s name, applicants must also provide a marriage or birth certificate to confirm residency. For the full list of accepted documents and additional information, visit the TSA website.
The STAR ID deadline is quickly approaching, and long wait times are expected as May 2025 nears. If you plan to fly domestically or access secure federal buildings, now is the time to gather your documents and make an appointment with an ALEA Driver License Exam Office.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or simply want to be prepared, obtaining your STAR ID now ensures you’re ready for takeoff when the new rules go into effect.
