Beginning May 7, 2025, all domestic air travelers will be required to have a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification such as a U.S. passport or passport card. This means, you may need to go get your Louisiana license or identification card Real ID ready. Therefore, Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company has put together a guide to help you get Real ID ready in Louisiana.
What Is Real ID?
The purpose of Real ID is to establish a consistent and, most importantly, a secure form of identification that protects you against fraud and identity theft as well as acts of terrorism.
The Real ID Act was created in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Unfortunately, some of the hijackers from these terrorist attacks used state-issued IDs to board the aircrafts. In the hopes to create a set standard of sources of identification, the Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005. Thus, the Real ID Act prohibits federal agencies that require you to present identification, such as airports, military bases, and federal courthouses, from accepting a state issued ID that is not Real ID-compliant.
Where To Get One
First, you cannot obtain a Real ID online. You will need to visit a local office of motor vehicles or, to avoid the crowded DMV, you can pay an additional convenience fee and obtain one at a notary and title office that is Real ID-compliant.
What Documents Do I Need?
To understand what documents are required, you must first understand what it is they are verifying. Real ID verifies your identity, lawful status, date of birth, social security information, and two (2) proofs of residence.
Most applicants’ documents include:
Other documents used to verify your social security information include a tax form such as a W-2 or a pay stub that includes your name along with your full or partial social security number. If your name has changed due to marriage, you can simply include your marriage certificate as well.
How Much Does It Cost?
What is the Typical Processing Time?
It can take up to 30 days to receive a Real ID-compliant credential. Once you are Real ID-compliant, a small gold circle with a star cutout will appear on the top right corner of your identification.
If you have Louisiana’s digital driver’s license through LA Wallet, the Real ID-compliant license will be processed and available to you as soon as it is approved. However, keep in mind, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not currently accept mobile or electronic identification.
Additional Resources
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Federal Aviation Administration
Louisiana Department of Public Safety Office of Motor Vehicles
