Deadline for Iowans to obtain REAL ID is May 7

 SHELBY COUNTY — Iowans have until May 7 to obtain their REAL ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. At the end of 2024, 73.5% of Iowa driver’s licenses were REAL ID compliant. Shelby County Treasurer Carolyn Blum said 85.51% of Shelby Countians have switched to REAL ID. To check if a driver’s license is REAL ID, check the upper-right corner. If there is a gold star, it is a REAL ID. Data from TSA checkpoints showed 8 out of 10 Iowans traveling domestically already possess a REAL ID. To obtain a REAL ID, you will need one document proving identity and birth date, one document proving social security number, and two documents stating a residential address. Iowa DOT recommends those needing a REAL ID to do so now to avoid delays as the deadline nears. Appointments can be scheduled through the Iowa DOT website at IowaDOT.gov and searching appointments. The charge for a REAL ID is $10. Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.These purposes include:• Accessing certain federal facilities.• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.• Entering nuclear power plants.