Time’s Running Out: Update Your Louisiana ID Soon

If it feels like we've been talking about the Real ID forever in Louisiana, it's because we have. The Real ID Act of 2005 set a goal to standardize all licenses and IDs across the US after 9/11. But, due to COVID and several other factors, the implementation has been delayed in numerous states including Louisiana.

After all the push backs and delays, the deadline to switch from a standard ID to the new Real ID is right around the corner.

When is the Deadline in Louisiana to Get a Real ID?

The deadline to sign-up and get a Real ID is quickly approaching. According to the Louisiana DMV and Department of Homeland Security, the deadline to be Real ID compliant is May 7th, 2025.

Why the Switch to a Real ID?

As mentioned above, the Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following 9/11. There have been numerous delays that have pushed back it's implementation for nearly 20 years, but the goal is still the same - to help prevent folks from using fraudulent IDs to get on a plane.

The new Real ID cards will help TSA identify that the person with the ID is really who they say they are. The ID works with Credential Authentication Technology to scan the ID, take a real time photo of the passenger passing through security and verify they're who they say they are.

What Happens to Louisiana Residents if They Don't Get a Real ID?

The short answer: eventually you won't be able to get on a plane. But, there will be a little grace period. According to the Advocate, TSA is taking a phased enforcement approach - which basically means for a short period of time, if you don't have a Real ID, they will accept your passport or other federally approved forms of identification as proper ID.

However, once that grace period ends (whenever that may be), you will have to have Real ID-compliant identification to travel.

How to Get a Real ID in Louisiana

Louisiana didn't exactly make it easy to get a Real ID. While some states had drives and various other initiatives to make the switch easy, Louisiana did not. Which is why Louisiana is behind the curve with compliance.

Louisiana OMV commissioner Dan Casey is urging people not to wait until the last minute as to prevent long lines, system errors and any number of issues that occur due to a huge last minute rush.

To get a Real ID in Louisiana, you must visit a OMV office or Public Tag Agent's office. There's several different documents you must provide to get a Real ID including a birth certificate or passport, social security card, and two proofs of residency. Louisiana has a virtual tool to make sure you have everything you need to be compliant before wasting hours at the OMV here.