Brookland, AR — (BrooklandNews.com) — Apr. 27, 2025 — The deadline for a Real ID is approaching as local revenue offices open on Saturdays.

On May 7, 2025, all travelers or citizens going on a domestic flight or to certain federal buildings must have a Real ID or a passport to enter.

What is a Real ID?

A Real ID is similar to a past ID, while it has a yellow star on it, which confirms certain identification requirements.

The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 and established minimum security standards for license issuance and production, and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting, for certain purposes, driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards.

Original deadlines were in 2008, but have been delayed multiple times, and the current deadline is set as May 7.

How can I get a Real ID?

It’s as simple as renewing a driver’s license; you need to go to your local revenue office.

You will need to bring multiple documents; you are going to need a document showing your legal name and date of birth. A birth certificate is acceptable. You will also need your Social Security card and a document showing proof of residency.

If you don’t have a Social Security card, a W-2 form, an SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form or a pay stub with the applicant’s name and SSN on it, these are all acceptable documents if a Social Security card is not applicable. That is according to the Department of Homeland Security’s website.

Five revenue office locations in Arkansas will be open on Saturdays to assist citizens in meeting the Real ID deadline. The five locations include the location in Jonesboro:

  • Little Rock Revenue Office (Ragland Building): 1900 West 7th Street
  • Fayetteville Revenue Office: 3086 West Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard
  • Jonesboro Revenue Office: 206 Southwest Drive
  • Texarkana Revenue Office: 801 East 4th Street
  • Monticello Revenue Office: 506 West Gaines

You can make an appointment at the revenue office, which is recommended, but not required, according to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.

A passport will still be accepted as a form of identification to board domestic and international flights and enter certain federal buildings. A Real ID can not be used to travel internationally.