As the clock ticks down to May 7, 2025, residents of Wisconsin find themselves in a race against time to secure a Real ID. This impending deadline marks a significant shift in travel and identification requirements across the United States.
Beginning on this date, anyone aged 18 and older will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another TSA-approved identification to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities. The Real ID, identifiable by a star in the upper right corner of Wisconsin IDs, is a more secure version of a driver’s license.
Understanding Real ID
The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was designed to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification. This move aims to enhance security and prevent identity fraud. As of early March, more than one-third of Wisconsin drivers had yet to make the switch, according to the Marshfield News-Herald.
Consequences of Missing the Deadline
Failing to obtain a Real ID by the deadline means you’ll need to rely on other forms of TSA-approved identification for domestic travel and certain federal facility visits. These alternatives include:
- U.S. passport
- State-issued Enhanced driver’s license
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license
- Transportation worker identification credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Steps to Obtain a Real ID in Wisconsin
To secure a Real ID, Wisconsin residents must visit their local DMV in person, as the process cannot be completed online. The fee remains the same as a regular driver’s license renewal, at $34, with a regular photo ID costing $28. Essential documents to bring include:
For a personalized checklist and to schedule an appointment, residents can visit the DMV’s interactive driver licensing guide.
For those with a valid U.S. passport or another TSA-approved ID, a Real ID is not mandatory for domestic travel. However, for others, this deadline is crucial to avoid disruptions in travel plans.
The Marshfield News-Herald has been at the forefront of reporting on this transition, ensuring that Wisconsin residents are well-informed and prepared for the changes ahead.
