Planning on taking a trip in 2025? Better be sure you have the proper driver's license.

Keep Scrolling for Changes to Your Driver's License

We have been hearing about 'Real IDs' since 2005 and no I am not joking about that date. Congress for the past two decades has been trying to get a minimum standard for licenses for security measures since 9/11. These were supposed to go into effect in 2020, but we all remember how much of a headache getting paperwork done in that year was.

Deadline for Real ID is May 7,2025

You will have less than a year from today to get that Read ID driver's license. The license will allow you to board any domestic flight in the United States. Obviously you will still need a passport if you plan to travel internationally. Something that a lot of folks don't know about the Real ID as well, you will not be able to access a federal facility without a Real ID. Examples of those are military bases or a courthouse.

How To Tell If You Have a Real ID in Texas?

Do we a favor and pull out your ID. If you look at the examples above you will see the state of Texas in gold in the upper right corner with a gold star in the middle. If your license has this, no need to do anything. You're ready for the Real ID deadline as your license has already been upgraded.

How to Upgrade to a Real ID?

Go to your local DMV and bring the following items

• One document that establishes identity, date of birth, and proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence, or other lawful U.S. status. A birth certificate will suffice for most people.
• Your Social Security number (card not required) or evidence of SSN ineligibility.
• Two documents to establish proof of residence in the state you're getting the ID for, such as a utility bill, paycheck stub, or mortgage payment

Passports Can Still Be Used for Travel without Real ID

If you don't have the gold star pictured above, but still have an active passport. You can use that to travel around until it expires. However, you will need to upgrade that license at some point. So don't put it off and just get it knocked out before May 7,2025.