If you are planning to fly in 2025, you may need to get your driver’s license updated.
Real IDs will be required to prove your identity when boarding commercial flights starting in May.
So what is a Real ID and when do you need it?
What is a Real ID?
Iowans with a Real ID compliant driver’s license will see a yellow star in the upper right corner, like the example labeled “2.” IDs issued after Feb. 21, 2024 that are not compliant will haev a warning message in place of the start, like the example labeled “3.”
The Real ID is a new federal requirement for state-issued driver licenses and non-driver IDs to prevent fraudulent identification. It takes up to 30 days to receive a Real ID in the mail. A standard driver’s license can still be used for driving and general identification.
When do Real ID requirements take effect?
After many years of delays, the Real ID Act requirements will go into effect starting May 7, 2025.
What do I need a Real ID for?
Real IDs will be required for boarding commercial flights in the United States and accessing certain federal buildings, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation.
If you don’t have a Real ID, you can present other acceptable identification, like a U.S. passport, permanent resident card or U.S. Department of Defense ID, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
How do I know if I have a Real ID?
In Iowa, a Real ID has a gold star in the upper-right corner of a driver’s license. Some states, like California, have incorporated the star into other design elements.
What does it mean if my ID says ‘not for Real ID Act purposes’?
Starting on Feb. 21, 2024, the Iowa DOT put a warning in the upper right corner of IDs that are not Real ID compliant. The message, which reads “Not for Real ID Act purposes,” appears in the upper right corner of the IDs.
Driver’s licenses or state ID cards with this message will not be valid for boarding commercial aircraft or entering certain government buildings once the Real ID Act goes into effect. They are still valid for driving and other purposes.
How do I get a Real ID in Iowa?
You can get a Real ID while going to renew an expired license before May 7, 2025. If your license doesn’t expire before the May 7 deadline, you can schedule an appointment at the DMV before then and replace your existing license.
You will need to present additional paperwork in person and you can not update your license to Real ID online.
What do I need to bring to get a Real ID in Iowa?
The Iowa Department of Iowa Transportation has an online guide so you can know exactly what to bring when updating your identification.
At a minimum, you will need your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of address and lawful status. You will also need to surrender your current license or ID issued by Iowa or another state, according to the Iowa DOT.
Proof of residence can range from an Iowa voter registration card to a utility bill.
Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: What do I need for a Real ID? Here’s how to get it Iowa by May 2025