Sample Id — The Star ID can be recognized by a star in the top left corner. (ALEA)

You’ve heard about it for years but after multiple delays in the state’s official enforcement, it seems like the STAR ID era is finally about to begin.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is reminding Alabama residents that the REAL ID Act of 2005, will officially go into effect on May 7.

This means Alabamians planning to take domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities will need a REAL ID-compliant driver license (known as STAR ID in Alabama) or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport.

“Currently, citizens who fly domestic are able to use their regular driver licenses or other photo identity cards issued by their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to board a plane. However, the REAL ID Act changes this. If you plan to use your state-issued ID or driver license to fly within the U.S. then it must be REAL ID compliant after May 7, 2025. In Alabama, the REAL ID is known as a STAR ID.”
Holley Cook, Director of ALEA’s Driver License Division

It’s worth noting you do not need a STAR ID for usage like driving, voting and identification in most cases. But if you need one for traveling and you haven’t gotten your STAR ID yet, keep reading for everything you need to know before headed to the DMV.

How to get your STAR ID

The state began offering STAR IDs statewide in 2012. The state originally set a deadline of October 2020 but that has been pushed back multiple times.

However, there’s no signs it will be pushed back again. And people are starting to realize that. Appointments are booked out for many DMV locations in Alabama through June.

And while May 7 is the enforcement date, you can get your STAR ID any time after that deadline + before you need to take a flight or enter select federal buildings.

Individuals must visit an ALEA Driver License Exam Office in-person, with the appropriate documents to obtain a STAR ID. ALEA offers an online guide for the application process that includes documents needed and offices + appointments available.

To avoid prolonged wait times, ALEA encourages citizens to schedule an appointment online for STAR ID services. However, the STAR ID appointments are filling up fast in Alabama’s larger cities such as Huntsville, Birmingham and Mobile. Wait times are to be expected even with an appointment.

“The STAR ID and the REAL ID Act ensures the safe and secure identification of not only Alabamians, but citizens across the country. While the STAR ID is only one of a variety of acceptable identification options, we strongly encourage individuals choosing to fly within the U.S. to take this step and obtain a STAR ID. Having a STAR ID well before your travel date will guarantee a smooth and worry-free experience.”
Hal Taylor, ALEA Secretary

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