What Kentuckians need to know about REAL ID

You have probably heard of REAL IDs, and maybe know that you need one, but why? To increase the security features on identification cards there are new minimum requirements, all IDs will need to meet these requirements to use your state issued ID to prove your identification for flights, to enter federal buildings, and to enter military bases. The basic Kentucky IDs do not currently meet these requirements, but the KY REAL ID does.

The deadline has been pushed back (again) on when you will be required to use a REAL ID to May 3, 2023, instead of the most recent date of October 1 2021. 

This is great news, because a look at the available REAL ID appointments show few options. Even though the deadline is another 2 years from now, getting your REAL ID as soon as you can will help you miss the last minute rush to get one in a few years, when you are supposed to go on vacation only to find out that your current license or ID card wont get you on your flight. 

Appointments for KY REAL IDs can be made at Regional Licensing Facilities, you can find them with this link. 

Regional License Locations

Regional License Locations

Make sure to show up to your appointment prepared! We got this information from the drive.ky.gov site:

  1. “Proof of identity document

    • One (1) required for both standard credential and REAL ID. If you wish to obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate, contact the vital statistics agency in the state of your birth. Those born in Kentucky may contact the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics. A current driver's license does not qualify as a valid proof of identity.

  2. Proof of Social Security number

  3. Proof of residency

    • One (1) required for standard credential; two (2) required for REAL ID

    • Forwarded mail can not be used as proof of residency.

  4. Proof of all legal identity changes

    • If your current legal name, date of birth, or gender is different than what is displayed on your identity or lawful status document, you must show legal proof of the changes (such as marriage licenses, court orders, divorce papers, etc.)

To RENEW any standard credential, applicants will only need to surrender their current license or ID to the Circuit Court Clerk’s office.

Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply for a REAL ID credential. A full list of acceptable documents is available.

You can still get a regular license for $21.50 or get your Real ID for $24, you can also pay $43 for a regular or $48 for a Real ID that lasts 8 years!

So there you have it, 2 more years to get your ID switched over, but plenty of reasons make the switch.

Kristah Barnette