Montgomery, AL – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has launched its participation in the nationwide “Be Your REAL ID Self” campaign, aiming to educate residents about Alabama’s Secure, Trusted, and Reliable Identification (STAR ID). With the May 7, 2025, federal enforcement deadline approaching, ALEA is urging citizens to obtain their STAR ID to ensure seamless travel and access to certain federal facilities.
Starting May 7, 2025, Alabama residents will be required to present a STAR ID or an alternative federally accepted form of identification to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings, including military installations. The STAR ID, which complies with the federal REAL ID Act, provides an extra layer of security, aligning with national standards for identification.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor emphasized the significance of obtaining a STAR ID, stating, “The STAR ID represents Alabama’s commitment to ensuring safe and secure identification for our citizens. It meets federal requirements under the REAL ID Act, providing enhanced security measures that align with national standards. Taking the extra step to obtain a STAR ID will guarantee a smoother travel experience and provide greater peace of mind as we move closer to the May 2025 enforcement deadline.”
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission, establishes strict security guidelines for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. It mandates that federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), only accept compliant IDs for official purposes, such as boarding flights.
Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, reiterated the importance of early compliance. “If you plan to get on a flight in the United States and use your driver’s license to verify your identity, it must be REAL ID compliant. Meaning, if you are a resident of Alabama, it must be a STAR ID,” Archer explained. “As part of the ‘Be Your REAL ID Self’ campaign, we encourage all Alabamians to go ahead and obtain a STAR ID if you plan to fly domestically or enter certain federal facilities. The STAR ID offers enhanced security and ensures compliance with federal regulations.”
To obtain a STAR ID, Alabama residents must visit an ALEA Driver License Examining Office, as not all locations issue the STAR ID. Online issuance is not available due to federal requirements. Holley Cook, Director of ALEA’s Driver License Division, advised residents to plan ahead. “STAR IDs are exclusively available at ALEA Driver License Examining offices, so citizens are urged to locate their nearest office and plan their visit accordingly. To avoid long wait times, it’s recommended to make an appointment and to come prepared with the required documentation, which includes proof of identity, residency, and legal presence.”
ALEA provides an online guide with a checklist of required documents, eligibility information, and a directory of Driver License Examining Offices. Residents are encouraged to be proactive in obtaining their STAR ID to ensure uninterrupted travel and access to federal facilities.
