Real ID travel requirement looms

By Kirsten Stokes

Trips for the summer of 2024 are already booked, but if you’re already pondering next year’s travel plans, having the right type of ID will determine whether you’re able to take off or not.

Starting May 7, 2025, instead of a standard ID, U.S. residents will be required to present a Real ID to board domestic flights. However, a Real ID isn’t the only form of identification that will be accepted. For example, U.S. passports and several other types of identification will still be permitted.

Officials with the Department of Revenue say that the Real ID is important to decrease fraud and make it harder for identity theft.

Real IDs aren’t much different from regular IDs, but there are a few more requirements to get a Real ID.

To apply for a Real ID in Missouri, residents must show original documents showing proof of identity, citizenship status, social security number, Missouri residency as well as other forms like marriage licenses to verify name changes.

A full list of accepted forms can be found at https://dor.mo.gov/forms/REAL%20ID-Compliant.pdf.

If you’re wondering if your ID is a Real ID, look for the star in the top right corner. This signifies that an ID is Real ID compliant.