The Sconi

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are urging travelers to verify their identification documents ahead of the enforcement of the REAL ID Act on May 7, 2025. After this date, a regular Wisconsin driver license or ID may not be accepted for domestic air travel or entry into federal buildings and military bases. Travelers will need a REAL ID compliant driver license, state ID card, or another acceptable form of identification like a passport.

At an event in Milwaukee, WisDOT's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) officials highlighted the importance of ensuring that travel documents are REAL ID ready. The standard indicator is a star in the upper right corner of the document.

"Wisconsin has been issuing REAL ID compliant driver licenses and ID cards since January 14, 2013," stated DMV Administrator Tommy Winkler. "With renewals required every eight years, all Wisconsin residents have had the option to convert to a REAL ID."

The TSA also emphasized the need for travelers to review their documents. "TSA strongly encourages everyone age 18 and older to take an inventory of what forms of photo identification you have that are accepted by TSA," said Wisconsin TSA Federal Security Director Mark Lendvay. "With less than three months to go before the deadline, now is the time to make a plan for what you will use to verify your identity with TSA when traveling."

Wisconsin offers both REAL ID compliant and non-compliant identity cards. "Under state law, Wisconsin DMV provides both options," Winkler explained. He advised those without a REAL ID designation to visit wisconsindmv.gov/REALID for guidance on obtaining one.

Currently, over 63% of Wisconsin's valid driver licenses or IDs display the REAL ID star, signifying federal compliance. The federal REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 with goals to standardize state-issued driver licenses and IDs for enhanced security and fraud prevention.

For personalized assistance with required documentation for DMV visits, individuals can utilize tools like the interactive Driver Licensing Guide available online.