On May 7, 2025, the REAL ID Act of 2005 will officially come into effect, establishing new identification requirements for individuals aged 18 and older. Under this law, individuals must present a REAL ID or an alternative federally issued photo identification, such as a passport, to gain access to specific federal facilities, military installations, and nuclear power plants. Additionally, this identification will be necessary for boarding commercial flights within the United States.
The initiative to issue REAL IDs began on July 1, 2019, under the auspices of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security. However, a significant number of residents in Tennessee remain unprepared for this change; approximately 1.6 million out of the 5.8 million valid credentials in the state do not meet REAL ID standards. In light of this, officials are encouraging Tennessee residents to take action before the deadline to avoid overwhelming the Driver Services Centers with last-minute applications.
It is important to note that, in accordance with federal regulations, applications for a REAL ID must be submitted in person. Tennessee residents who currently hold a valid driver’s license or identification card can apply for a REAL ID at either a Driver Services Center or a participating County Clerk’s office. Conversely, those who do not possess a Tennessee driver’s license or identification must visit a Driver Services Center to initiate their application for a REAL ID.