Will You Need a REAL ID in Kentucky? Here’s What You Need To Know
February 25, 2025
What is a REAL ID?
On May 7, 2025, things will change a little bit for Kentucky driver’s license and state identification holders. If you currently don’t hold a REAL ID issued by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, you will have trouble boarding planes and entering certain federal locations. However, if your current driver’s license is not a REAL ID, these prohibitions “do not affect other uses of the driver’s licenses or identification cards,” according to the Department of Homeland Security.
In The Article
What is the REAL ID Act?
The REAL ID Act of 2005 was enacted by Congress under the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation. The Act is designed to create regulation for accessing specific federal facilities, boarding commercial airlines, and entering nuclear power plants by establishing minimum security standards for acquiring state-issued licenses.
Under the Act, anyone 18 years or older must obtain a REAL ID by May 7, 2025 in order to fly domestically or visit certain federal facilities.
Is REAL ID Mandatory in Kentucky?
Starting May 7, 2025, the REAL ID will be mandatory in Kentucky. You’ll be able to use your REAL ID as an official form of identification for things like driving, voting, age-restricted purchases, and accessing social benefits such as social security and VA hospitals.
Do I Need a REAL ID to Fly in the US?
Yes, Federal Law will require everyone in the United States who is 18 or older to hold a REAL ID from their state of residence by May 7, 2025, in order to board flights.
What Documents Do I Need to Get a REAL ID in Kentucky?
If you don’t have your REAL ID yet, obtaining yours is easier than you might think. In order to get your REAL ID, you’ll need to go into your nearest Driver Licensing Regional Office and apply.
When you go, you’ll need the following documents to ensure your appointment goes smoothly:
- One Proof of Identity
- One Proof of Social Security
- Two Proofs of Residency
- Legal Proof of Name, Date of Birth, or Gender Changes (If Applicable)
For the legal proof of name, date of birth, or gender changes, you’ll need to bring in proper documentation that shows these changes. For example, if you were married and took your spouses last name, the name on your birth certificate is different from the one on your driver’s license, so you’ll need to bring in documentation that shows you went through the proper channels to get your name changed legally.
The Drive Kentucky website has a full list of acceptable documents that can help you better prepare for your appointment.
When Will I Receive My REAL ID in Kentucky?
Once you’ve gone through the steps of getting your REAL ID, you will be given a 30-day temporary document that is printed at the Drivers Licensing Regional Office. If necessary, this document will act as your REAL ID, and you’ll be able to board commercial flights with this document; however, if you plan on using your REAL ID for other identification purposes, it’s always best practice to contact the business beforehand to ensure your temporary ID will be suitable for services.
Within 10-15 business days, you should receive your REAL ID in the mail.
How Much Will My Kentucky REAL ID Cost?
Because REAL IDs in Kentucky will be valid for longer periods of time, the price for the new card will cost a little more. REAL IDs in Kentucky will be valid for either four or eight years. An eight-year driver’s license REAL ID will cost $48, and a four-year driver’s license REAL ID will cost $24.
Kentucky REAL ID pricing can vary depending on the type of ID or license you’d like to get. CDL costs in Kentucky can vary depending on the type of CDL or different endorsement combinations.
For more information on the REAL ID in Kentucky, visit Drive.KY.GOV.
