Starting May 7, every air traveler 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID to board domestic flights and enter some federal buildings.
If you haven’t gotten one yet, the process is fairly smooth as long as you have an appointment and come prepared.
You can schedule an appointment online, at a kiosk, or by contacting the DMV in your county.
You can also walk into a DMV and see if they offer standby service, but that doesn’t guarantee you’ll be seen.
Next, check in for your appointment at the concierge desk with all the required documents.
You must show proof of legal presence in the U.S., like a U.S. passport or permanent resident card, and two proofs of Hawaii residency no more than two months old, like a financial statement and utility bill.
If your name has changed, bring paperwork supporting it. Interpreter services are available upon request.
To save time, before your appointment, fill out the ID application online, print it out and bring it with you.
It takes six to eight weeks to receive your REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID. It will have a white star in a gold circle in the front, upper-right corner.
Those who are eligible for real IDs are urged to renew up to six months before their expiration date.
If you don’t already have a Real ID and plan to travel on or after May 7, plan to bring another form of acceptable photo ID.
The federal Real ID requirement was enacted in 2005 to protect national security. May 7 is when the Transportation Security Administration begins enforcement.
Adult air passengers without proper IDs can expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of missing their flights if their identity cannot be verified.
- Kauai County: The DMV is open Monday to Friday, except for state and federal holidays. To book an appointment or for more information, please visit www.kauai.gov/DMV. Walk-in customers are served as time permits. Kupuna Hour is available at the Lihue DMV for customers aged 65 and older and is from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m., with no appointments necessary.
