Is This Gold Star on Your Driver’s License? The Deadline is May 7

Is your driver's license REAL ID compliant? Until a few hours ago, I didn't even realize that was a thing.

The History of the REAL ID Act

Let's go back to 2005. That's when the United States Congress (in response to the 9/11 attacks) passed the REAL ID Act. This required "states to adopt and implement uniform standards for the issuance and production of state-issued driver licenses and identification cards if they are to be accepted as identity documents by the federal government."

The Act is intended to strengthen the integrity and security of state-issued cards in an effort to reduce identity fraud and terrorism.

Texas Starts The REAL ID Process in 2016

In the fall of 2016, Texas began the process of issuing REAL ID-compliant cards. Beginning May 7, 2025, only state-issued driver licenses and identification cards that are fully compliant with the REAL ID Act will be accepted for official federal government purposes.

You want to board a domestic flight? You'll need a REAL ID-compliant card. The same thing applies to entering a secure federal building.

How about driving, voting, or banking in Texas? A REAL ID-compliant card is not necessary for those since they are considered state-related, and not federal.

Look For The Gold Star

Since the switch to 'gold-starred' driver licenses started nearly 10 years ago, chances are you already have a REAL-ID compliant license. These cards are marked with a gold circle with an inset star located in the upper right-hand corner.

If your card expires after May 7, 2025, and you want a REAL ID-compliant card, you can request a duplicate card either in person or through Texas.gov.