(COLORADO) — The new deadline for the REAL ID Act is approaching quickly, and all citizens must have a compliant driver’s license or identification card.

The act will go into full effect on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 and enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification” such as driver’s licenses and ID cards.

Beginning in May, travelers will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights, enter federal facilities, and access certain secure federal sites. Those who do not present a compliant ID or acceptable alternatives will not be permitted through the security checkpoint.

Some alternatives include other TSA-accepted documents, such as a valid U.S. passport or military ID.

Colorado and the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s Office are fully compliant with the REAL ID Act and have been issuing compliant ID cards since 2012. To find out if your ID or driver’s license is compliant, look in the upper right-hand corner — if it features a star, it is compliant.

To obtain a REAL ID in Colorado:

Visit a Colorado or County DMV office

Only State DMV offices can issue a first-time driver’s license. El Paso County DMV branches can only replace existing state driver’s licenses.

Provide proof of identity, like a birth certificate or passport

Provide proof of Social Security number through utility bill, W-2, etc.

Provide two proofs of Colorado residency through utility bill or lease agreement

For those who do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, the DMV encourages individuals to update before the deadline.