Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) and ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor reminded Alabamians that they have a year to the federal deadline requiring a more secure identification to fly domestically on commercial aircraft and to enter military bases and certain federal facilities.
Gov. Ivey urged Alabamians to obtain the STAR ID, which stands for Secure, Trusted and Reliable Identification. The STAR ID is fully compliant with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005.
“One year from today, on Oct. 1, 2020, all air travelers will need a STAR ID for commercial domestic flights and to visit certain federal facilities,” Gov. Ivey said. “Those who hold a valid, unexpired U.S. passport may opt to use it for domestic air travel. If there is a chance you will need one, I encourage you to obtain this more secure version of Alabama’s driver license or non-driver ID card within the next few months to ensure you are prepared by the federal deadline.”
The STAR ID is Alabama’s version of the REAL ID program. REAL IDs were developed about nine years ago to comply with federal legislation. The REAL ID Act was passed in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 subsequent terrorist activity.
“License commissioner and probate offices across the state will still offer driver license and ID renewals and duplicates, but you must visit one of our agency’s Driver License offices to obtain your first STAR ID,” Secretary Taylor said, stressing the importance of bringing along required documents proving one’s identity. Customers will be turned away if they do not present the following paperwork to Driver License examiners: a birth certificate (original or certified copy) or valid, unexpired U.S. passport, a Social Security card and two documents verifying address of principal residence. ALEA’s website features a list of accepted documents, as well as further information on the STAR ID program.
The STAR ID was first introduced in the fall of 2011. More than 450,000 have been issued thus far.
Secretary Taylor said it is important for everyone to consider obtaining a STAR ID within the next few months. To save time, he said, members of the public may go to the Driver License Division page on ALEA’s website, www.alea. gov, to schedule an appointment at one of ALEA’s Driver License Examining Offices.
Lynn Weldon is the executive director of the Aviation Council of Alabama.
“Our council fully supports Governor Ivey and Secretary Taylor’s efforts to promote this program,” Weldon said. “TSA does provide on its website a list of accepted alternative forms of ID; but having a STAR ID will simplify your trip through airport security.”
“Let’s not wait until the last minute,” Ivey said. “Obtain your STAR ID today.”
