As the deadline for Real ID compliance draws near, travelers in Colorado need to ensure their identification is ready for the new regulations taking effect on May 7, 2025. U.S. airlines and federal authorities are making it clear: if your ID doesn’t meet Real ID standards, you may be unable to fly or access certain federal facilities. Understanding what it takes to meet these requirements is crucial to avoid any travel disruptions.

Colorado residents have had the option to obtain Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs since 2012. The indicator of compliance is straightforward—a small star in the upper right corner of your ID. For Colorado driver’s licenses, this star appears as a black circle with a star cut-out in the center. For state IDs, it’s a gold star. This star signals that the ID is acceptable for federal purposes, including air travel and access to certain government buildings.

If you look at your Colorado ID and don’t see the star, don’t panic—it’s time to renew your license or ID. Visit your local Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office or renew online to update your document to Real ID-compliant status. Additionally, while a Real ID-compliant license is necessary for federal air travel, you can always use a valid passport if you already have one or prefer to travel with that.

However, there’s an important exception to note. Individuals who are in Colorado without legal status or on temporary visas may receive a Colorado license marked with a black bar. This bar indicates that the license is not valid for federal identification purposes, meaning it is not Real ID-compliant and cannot be used for airport security. For these individuals, securing another valid form of ID, such as a passport, would be necessary.

Remember, digital versions of your Colorado ID are not accepted for federal identification purposes, and these will not count as Real IDs, even if they show up on your smartphone. If you’re planning any travel or need access to federal buildings, make sure your physical ID is in compliance before May 7 to avoid delays or complications.