Real I.D. will go into effect on Wednesday

May 6, 2025

Terry Allison, ABC 36 Digital Staff,

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — Starting Wednesday, May 8, new federal travel rules go into effect that could impact how you fly or enter secure government buildings.

To fly domestically or access places like military bases and federal courthouses, travelers will now need one of the following: a REAL ID, valid passport, passport card, or military ID.

In Kentucky, if you still need a REAL ID, you’ll need to bring:

Proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport),
Your Social Security card,
And two documents showing Kentucky residency.

REAL IDs are available at driver licensing regional offices, including two in Lexington. The cost is $24 for four years or $48 for eight years. You can book an appointment at drive.ky.gov.

While enforcement starts Wednesday, TSA says travelers won’t be turned away if they show up without a REAL ID, but the screening process may take longer.

“We are going to process you. It might take some additional time, but we’re going to do it efficiently,” said Steve Lorincz, TSA’s acting executive assistant administrator for security operations. “We are fully staffed at all locations across the country.”

Travelers are encouraged to check their ID status now to avoid delays and disruptions.