By EmmaRose Atwood, Building Kentucky
Now that the May 7 REAL ID enforcement date has passed, Team Kentucky wants to remind Kentuckians that May 7 is not a deadline. It simply marks the day when standard driver’s licenses are no longer accepted for boarding U.S. commercial flights or entering certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You can still get your REAL ID at any time — next week, next month, or even next year — depending on your travel or access needs. If you’re not flying soon or visiting secure federal buildings, your standard license remains valid for everyday activities, including:
- Driving
- Voting
- Age-restricted purchases
- Accessing Social Security offices and VA hospitals
REAL ID is just one option.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts multiple forms of ID for domestic flights and secure facility access. You may already have one:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- Global Entry Card
- Military ID
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Check the full list at tsa.gov.
No immediate travel? No need to rush.
But if you do need a REAL ID soon, or you just want to get it done, here are tips to make your visit to a licensing office easier:
- Bring the right documents – Find the full checklist at Drive.ky.gov
- Check in early – Use a QR code or kiosk for faster service
- Skip the physical line – You’ll get a text when it’s your turn
Want to skip the office altogether?
Team Kentucky’s new “Skip the Line” initiative offers multiple convenient options for license renewal, online or by mail, once you complete a vision screening:
- In-Office Passcode: Do your vision screening at the office, get a code, and finish online at DLRenewal.ky.gov
- Quick Renewal on Site: Fill out the form on location and get a temporary license by email
- Use Your Eye Doctor: Upload a completed vision form from your specialist to renew online
- Mail-In Option: Download the renewal form and send it with your vision screening
Bottom line:
Real ID is available when you need it. Kentuckians now have more ways than ever to take care of their license without the wait. Learn more at Drive.ky.gov.
