Countdown to REAL ID deadline

WOOD COUNTY – When enforcement of the REAL ID Act begins May 7, 2025, the regular Wisconsin driver license or ID may no longer be accepted identification for domestic air travel or to enter a federal building or military base. Travelers will be asked to present a REAL ID compliant driver license or state ID card or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport.
The most common document is a driver license or ID and should have the REAL ID star in the upper right corner.
“Wisconsin has been issuing REAL ID compliant driver licenses and ID cards since January 14, 2013. With renewals required every eight years, all Wisconsin residents have had the option to convert to a REAL ID,” DMV Administrator Tommy Winkler said.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is also urging travelers to review their documents.
“TSA strongly encourages everyone age 18 and older to take an inventory of what forms of photo identification you have that are accepted by TSA. Doing so will ensure that you are prepared for the enforcement of REAL ID requirements starting May 7,” Wisconsin TSA Federal Security Director Mark Lendvay said. “With less than three months to go before the deadline, now is the time to make a plan for what you will use to verify your identity with TSA when traveling.”

Wisconsin offers both a REAL ID compliant and non-compliant identity cards.
“Under state law, Wisconsin DMV provides both options,” Winkler said. “Those who don’t already have REAL ID designation should visit wisconsindmv.gov/REALID to learn how to obtain a REAL ID compliant DL or ID. You can start the application online, print out a checklist of required documents to present to DMV, and make an appointment for service to make your trip as quick and convenient as possible.”
Over 63% of Wisconsin’s valid driver license or ID cards currently display the REAL ID star indicating they are federally compliant. In 2005, the federal REAL ID Act was passed by Congress to standardize state-issued driver licenses and ID cards to enhance security and prevent identity fraud.
For a personalized checklist of the required documents needed to bring to the DMV, check out the interactive Driver Licensing Guide. It also allows customers to pre-fill any required application(s), print and bring the forms or submit them electronically (if eligible). Customers are also able to print a checklist of required documents to bring. Or visit wisconsindmv.gov/REALID for more information.