Kentuckians have 6 months left to get 'REAL ID Ready'

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- In just six months, REAL IDs will be required to board any U.S. flights or to access military bases.

Kentuckians are being encouraged to get "REAL ID Ready." Starting May 7, 2025 every resident age 18 or older will need a REAL ID to travel by plane within the U.S.

The requirement is part of the federal REAL ID Act, aimed at establishing minimum security standards for state-issued identification documents.

"Sometimes, people will confuse REAL ID because they think they have REAL ID, but this is a specific form of identification that are really important for travelers in the Commonwealth," Blue Grass Airport President and CEO Eric Frank said.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said 32% of Kentuckians have already gotten their REAL ID card.

"We know that some of you never plan to fly, but emergencies happen. Circumstances change, and all we can do is be prepared," KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said.

Kentuckians can renew their license up to six months before it expires. Anyone ineligible for renewal can upgrade to a REAL ID for $15 and keep your same expiration date. REAL ID licenses are available for $24 for a four-year ID, and $48 for an eight-year ID.

To make an appointment at one of the state's regional licensing offices, click here. Walk-in customers are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

All Kentucky regional Driver Licensing Offices are equipped to issue REAL ID versions of licenses or identification. Kentucky residents who already have a REAL ID can renew online or by mail, but first time applicants have to apply in-person with required documents. A list of acceptable documents is available at RealIDKy.com.

Circuit court clerks historically provided driver’s licenses and state identification card services in each county, but a majority of clerks asked KYTC to take over issuing REAL IDs.

To learn more about the transition to REAL ID in Kentucky, click here.

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