KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Starting May 7, 2025, the federal law requiring a REAL ID to fly domestically or enter federal buildings kicks in.
A REAL ID will be needed to get through TSA instead of a normal state-issued license. Other forms of acceptable ID are a passport, Tribal Nation ID or those listed here.
A REAL ID can be identified by a gold star in the top right corner. This is required under the 2005 REAL ID Act, which lawmakers passed post 9/11 as a way to create a minimum security standard for state-issued licenses.
Missouri and Kansas do not require people to obtain an ID, so it is an option at the state level. However, if you plan to fly, the Missouri Department of Revenue said to make the switch sooner rather than later.
KSHB 41 News reporter Claire Bradshaw polled travelers at the Kansas City International Airport ahead of the deadline. Those whom she asked that had a REAL ID were asked why they opted for one.
"So I can make sure I didn't need to get another ID anytime soon," said one traveler.
"Because I was told I was going to have to have one, especially to travel," said one man flying out to Georgia.
"Because I needed to renew it, and it is just convenient," said a woman flying home to Texas.
One man asked did not have a REAL ID. He said he only plans to get one if he has to.
"I don't fly often. This is the first time since I was in the Army," he said.
If you choose to make the switch at a licensing office, below is a list of required documents you need to provide.
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KSHB 41 reporter Claire Bradshaw covers eastern Jackson County, including Blue Springs and Independence. Share your story idea with Claire.
