The U.S. Department of Homeland Security extended the enforcement deadline for the REAL ID (called STAR ID in Alabama) to May 7, 2025.
In order to comply with the Federal REAL ID Act, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency developed the STAR ID program. STAR ID is a step beyond an ordinary Alabama driver's license or non-driver identification card and it meets all the requirements of federal law.
Effective May 7, 2025, every air traveler will need a REAL ID compliant license/ID (STAR ID) or another form of identification for domestic air travel. (See TSA’s website for a full list of acceptable identification for domestic air travel.)
Once the provision of the REAL ID Act (STAR ID) goes into effect, individuals who do not have an unexpired U.S. passport will need an Alabama STAR ID to board commercial aircraft for domestic flights or to enter certain regulated federal facilities.
For additional information, visit https://www.alea.gov/dps/driver-license/star-id.