As the May 7 deadline for the REAL ID Act approaches, Tennessee's Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) is increasing its capacity by adding more than 1,400 new daily appointment slots for REAL ID applications. The REAL ID Act requires individuals aged 18 and older to have a REAL ID or another federally approved ID to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities. "The REAL ID appointment expansion helps ensure that Tennesseans have the opportunity to obtain a REAL ID ahead of the federal deadline," TDOSHS Commissioner Jeff Long said, according to the department's announcement.
Already, 2.7 million Tennesseans are ahead of the curve with REAL ID-compliant credentials, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. However, as reported on their website, close to 1.2 million residents remain uncertain about whether to join the movement. In contrast, another 1.9 million have chosen to decidedly not pursue the compliant credential. The department began issuing REAL IDs on July 1, 2019, and urged that residents should not wait to take advantage of the increased availability of appointments.
The process to apply for a REAL ID requires applicants to present original or certified proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, their Social Security Number, and two documents verifying Tennessee residency. If there has been a name change, certified legal documentation will be needed. Additionally, the TDOSHS website provides a pre-approval portal, allowing applicants to check if their documents meet the requirements before the in-person application.
Obtaining a REAL ID is not required for all situations; it is optional. For everyday activities such as driving, banking, or visiting hospitals, a non-REAL ID license will still be valid. However, once the REAL ID requirement takes full effect, you will need either a REAL ID or another federally approved photo ID to pass through airport security. A comprehensive list of acceptable identification can be found on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for those with travel plans.
For new Tennessee residents or those renewing their licenses, the cost of a REAL ID is $28.00. If you need a REAL ID outside of your regular renewal period, there will be an additional duplication fee, ranging from $8 to $12 depending on your license classification. To find locations or schedule an appointment, visit tnrealid.gov.
