As the federal enforcement deadline for the REAL ID Act approaches, Alabama professionals who travel frequently for work or access secure federal facilities should take note. Beginning May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant identification—known in Alabama as the STAR ID—will be accepted for boarding domestic flights and entering certain federal buildings.

Though the deadline was extended by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security due to pandemic-related delays, the implementation date is now firm. With the travel-heavy summer season on the horizon and supply chains still recovering from logistical backlogs, securing your STAR ID sooner rather than later is a strategic move.

What is the STAR ID?

The STAR ID (Secure, Trusted and Reliable) is Alabama’s version of a federally compliant REAL ID, a measure introduced through the REAL ID Act of 2005, a legislative response to the September 11 attacks. Designed to enhance the security of state-issued identification, the act sets higher standards for verifying identity, legal presence, and residence.

Unlike a standard driver’s license or non-driver ID, the STAR ID includes enhanced features that meet federal requirements. As of May 2025, travelers who choose to fly domestically using their Alabama-issued ID must present a STAR ID at TSA checkpoints unless they opt to use a valid U.S. passport or other acceptable documentation.

How to Obtain a STAR ID

To acquire a STAR ID, individuals must visit an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Driver License Exam Office in person. While local county offices still process standard renewals and duplicates, STAR IDs are issued exclusively through ALEA exam offices to ensure proper identity verification. Appointments are strongly recommended to avoid delays, and ALEA provides an online scheduling tool to streamline the process.

Applicants must bring the following four categories of documentation:

Proof of Identity and Date of Birth – such as a certified birth certificate or unexpired U.S. passport.
Proof of Social Security Number – Social Security card, W-2 form, or similar document.
Two Proofs of Alabama Residency – such as a utility bill, voter registration card, or lease agreement.
Legal Documentation of Name Change – if applicable, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

The fee is $36.25, identical to a standard Alabama license. While the process typically takes only 10–15 minutes once checked in, applicants should account for possible wait times and the mailing period. A temporary paper license is issued immediately, while the permanent STAR ID arrives by mail within 2–4 weeks.

Strategic Timing Matters

With the enforcement deadline set during a peak business and travel season, professionals planning to travel for conferences, client visits, or federal contract work in summer 2025 should act early. Waiting until the last minute could mean delays, especially if your identification is tied to travel reimbursement, grant access, or security clearance.

STAR ID is Optional for Some—But Essential for Others

It’s important to note that obtaining a STAR ID is optional for Alabama residents. Those who have an unexpired U.S. passport, passport card, or certain other forms of federal ID may continue to use those for air travel or access to federal facilities. However, for individuals who primarily rely on their state-issued ID, the STAR ID will soon become essential.

“Alabamians have the freedom to choose,” said an ALEA spokesperson. “If they want to use their driver’s license or ID card for federal purposes, they’ll need the STAR. If they prefer a passport, that’s perfectly acceptable too.”

For businesses with frequent flyers or employees working on federal contracts, now is a good time to circulate internal reminders or even consider reimbursing STAR ID application fees as a professional development or travel-readiness benefit.

Where to Go

In Madison County, Alabama, residents can obtain a STAR ID at the ALEA Driver License Examining Office located at 1115 Church Street NW in Huntsville. This is the only location in the county authorized to issue new STAR IDs, as they are not available at county-run satellite offices. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and scheduling an appointment through the ALEA website is strongly recommended to avoid long wait times. Applicants should bring the required documents: proof of identity and date of birth, proof of Social Security number, two proofs of Alabama residency, and legal name change documents if applicable.

Bottom Line

While the STAR ID may seem like a bureaucratic formality, it’s a critical credential for professionals whose work involves travel or federal access. With a short appointment, a few documents, and minimal cost, securing a STAR ID now is a small step that can prevent big travel headaches in the year ahead.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website.