The deadline to get a REAL ID-compliant license is just two months away for Michigan residents. Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need to show a REAL ID when flying domestically, entering certain federal buildings, or accessing military bases and nuclear power plants. If you’re in Michigan, you only have two months to make sure your driver’s license or ID is updated before you face any restrictions.
This REAL ID requirement was originally set to take effect earlier, but delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the deadline to May 7, 2025. With the deadline fast approaching, it’s time to prepare for what’s required to stay compliant.
What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a special form of identification that meets federal requirements for traveling and accessing specific facilities. For Michigan residents, there are two types of IDs that are REAL ID-compliant:
- Gold Star on a State of Michigan License: If your Michigan driver’s license or state ID card has a gold star in the upper right corner, then you already have a REAL ID-compliant document.
- Gold Circle with Star: Older IDs may have a gold circle with a star. These IDs need to be updated before May 7, 2025, to meet federal requirements.
While converting to a REAL ID is not mandatory, it is essential if you plan to board domestic flights, visit federal buildings, or enter military or nuclear sites.
Who Needs a REAL ID?
If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant license, you won’t be able to use your regular driver’s license to board domestic flights after May 7, 2025. However, if you already have one of the following documents, you are already compliant:
- U.S. Passport
- Enhanced Michigan License or ID
- DHS Trusted Traveler Card
These documents can be used instead of a REAL ID for traveling and accessing federal facilities.
How to Get a REAL ID in Michigan
Getting a REAL ID in Michigan requires a quick visit to a Secretary of State office, where you can schedule an appointment to update your license or ID. Here’s a list of the documents you’ll need to bring to complete the process:
- Your current Michigan driver’s license or ID
- A valid, unexpired U.S. passport, birth certificate, or another form of legal presence document
- Certified legal name-change document (if your name has changed from what’s on your birth certificate)
It’s important to make sure that all documents are valid and unexpired. Once you submit your documents, the Secretary of State office will issue your updated, REAL ID-compliant license or ID.
Benefits of Having a REAL ID
While it is not required for everyone to get a REAL ID, there are a few key reasons why you might want to update your identification:
- Ease of Domestic Travel: After May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another form of compliant identification to fly within the United States.
- Access to Federal Buildings: A REAL ID is also required to enter certain federal buildings and military facilities.
- Simplified Identity Verification: With the REAL ID, you’ll have a government-approved form of identification that is recognized nationwide.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute!
With only two months left before the deadline, it’s essential to make sure your Michigan driver’s license or ID is updated. The process to get your REAL ID is easy and quick if you have the right documents prepared.
To avoid long wait times at the Secretary of State office, it’s a good idea to schedule your appointment soon. The sooner you update your ID, the sooner you’ll be ready for May 7, 2025, and avoid any inconvenience when flying or visiting federal buildings.
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