The STAR ID program was devised by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency in order to comply with the Federal REAL ID Act. STAR ID surpasses the standard Alabama driver’s license or non-driver identification card and satisfies all federal regulations.
Beginning May 7, 2025, all air travelers will be required to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID (STAR ID) or an alternative form of identification for domestic air travel. (For an exhaustive list of permissible identification for domestic air travel, consult the Transportation Security Administration’s website.)
STAR IDs are initially issued exclusively to qualified individuals at Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License exam offices. County-operated licensing offices will continue to offer license renewals and duplicates, as well as ID cards and STAR IDs.
Individuals who lack an unexpired U.S. passport will require an Alabama STAR ID to board commercial aircraft for domestic flights or to enter specific regulated federal facilities once the provision of the REAL ID Act (STAR ID) is implemented.
“Not for Federal Identification” will be displayed across the top of any Alabama license or identification card issued on or after April 25, 2022, that is not compliant with the REAL ID Act of 2005 (not a STAR ID).
