As Connecticut residents prepare for the upcoming REAL ID deadline, it’s crucial to take action now to ensure you are ready for the changes coming next year. Starting on May 2025, travelers who do not possess a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license will be unable to use it as identification for domestic flights or to access secure federal facilities, such as military bases and some government buildings. The REAL ID is an important identification upgrade that includes a small star in the upper-right corner of your driver’s license or ID card, indicating that it meets federal security standards. While Connecticut residents can continue using their regular driver’s license for now, the clock is ticking for those who want to use it to board a plane or enter federal facilities after May 2025.

To get your REAL ID in Connecticut, you will need to visit a local DMV office in person and bring a few specific documents to prove your identity, legal status, and residency. These documents include a U.S. passport or birth certificate, two proofs of Connecticut residency, your social security card (if applicable), and your current driver’s license (if you’re transferring from another state). While it may seem like a lot of paperwork, the process is simple and ensures you are prepared for the upcoming travel regulations. You may also want to plan ahead as the closer it gets to the May 2025 deadline, the busier the DMV offices are likely to become.

For Connecticut residents who have yet to obtain the REAL ID, now is the time to act. Make sure you gather the necessary documents, schedule an appointment with your local DMV office, and take care of the upgrade sooner rather than later to avoid unnecessary delays in your travel plans. As federal regulations tighten, upgrading to a REAL ID ensures smooth travel and access to federal buildings, making it an essential step for all Connecticut residents.