Mississippi DPS Reminds you to Get Ready for the 2025 REAL ID Deadline: It's Coming Fast

With the clock ticking down to the May 7, 2025, deadline for all US citizens to obtain a REAL ID, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver Service Bureau is reminding residents to get ready now. REAL ID is a federal security measure that requires residents to bring in documents to verify their identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, before receiving a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID.

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to set uniform standards for state driver’s licenses and ID cards in an effort to improve the reliability of these documents while also deterring identity theft and fraud. To comply with federal law, the Mississippi DPS began issuing REAL IDs in 2018.

Mississippians who plan to fly domestically or access certain federal facilities after May 7, 2025, must obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID. Those who do not obtain a REAL ID by the deadline will need a valid passport or other federally approved identification to board a domestic flight or access certain federal facilities.

“We understand this may seem far away, but we encourage Mississippians to start the process now,” said Colonel Randy Ginn, Director of the Mississippi DPS. “The REAL ID process can take some time, depending on the documents you must bring in. We want citizens to be prepared and avoid any last-minute stress.”

To apply for a REAL ID, Mississippians must visit their local DPS office with the necessary documents to prove identity, legal presence in the US, social security number, and Mississippi residency. Documents must be original or certified copies.

Acceptable documents for identity include a birth certificate, valid US passport or passport card, permanent resident card, or foreign passport with a valid US visa. Documents to prove legal presence in the US include a birth certificate, valid US passport or passport card, Permanent Resident Card, or foreign passport with a valid US visa. Documents to prove social security number include an original social security card, W-2 form, or pay stub with the applicant’s name and social security number. Documents to prove Mississippi residency can include a valid driver’s license or state ID, utility or cell phone bill, mortgage or rental agreement, bank statement, or other documents that contain the applicant’s name and Mississippi address.

The DPS recommends that those applying for a REAL ID bring all documents to the DPS office. The driver’s license or state ID fee is $32.75, and the REAL ID fee is $10.

For more information about REAL ID and steps to apply, visit ms.gov/driverservices or your local DPS office.