REAL ID

The REAL ID Act of 2005 established minimum security standards for license issuance and production. These standards provide an additional level of security to protect your identity. It also prohibits Federal agencies from accepting driver licenses and ID cards from states that do not meet the Act’s minimum standards. Beginning May 7, 2025, everyone must have a REAL ID license or passport to enter certain Federal buildings, military bases and nuclear power plants or board commercial flights within the United States.

REAL ID CREDENTIAL

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REAL ID compliant driver licenses and Identification credentials have a black circle with a star in the right corner of the license to indicate it is REAL ID compliant. 

 

STANDARD ID CREDENTIAL

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Non-REAL ID driver licenses and identification credentials display the phrase, "NOT FOR REAL ID ACT PURPOSES" on the front of the credential. 

Tennesseans are not required to obtain a REAL ID compliant license or Identification credential. You do NOT need a REAL ID to:

  • Drive
  • Vote
  • Purchase alcohol or cigarettes
  • Access hospitals
  • Visit the post office
  • Access federal courts
  • Apply for or receive federal benefits such as social security or veterans’ benefits
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