Michaela Bigaouette, Marion County Treasurer, pointed out how important it is to obtain a real ID, which shows up on your driver’s license. A real ID proves your identity to Homeland Security.

It is not required so there is no deadline to obtain one. You do need a real ID after May 3, 2023 if you fly domestically or want to gain access to a federal facility or a military base. The real ID will show up on your driver’s license with a gold star in the upper right hand corner.

Bigaouette tells KNIA/KRLS why it’s important, “The important thing to note about having a real ID on your license is it allows you to fly domestically or gain access to a federal building.”

Bigaouette adds it’s not the end of the world if you don’t have the real ID because not everyone will need it.