REMINDER: REAL ID deadline set for May 7, 2025

Published on April 01, 2025

LĪHU‘E – The public is advised that the deadline to obtain a REAL ID compliant Hawai‘i driver’s license or State identification card is May 7, 2025. Every person traveling domestically on a commercial airline will need to present a REAL ID compliant credential or another acceptable form of identification by this deadline.

A video tutorial on how to apply for and obtain a REAL ID credential is available on the county’s website, www.kauai.gov/Residents/How-Tos-and-Informational-Videos.

The REAL ID credential is marked with a white star in a gold circle on a Hawai‘i driver’s license or identification card.

The REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005, enacted a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission and established minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses and identification cards. The Act further prohibited federal agencies, including the TSA, from accepting state-issued driver licenses or identification cards that do not meet the minimum standards.

While the current deadline to obtain a REAL ID is May 7, 2025, officials encourage all to stay informed and continue to check the county’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, www.kauai.gov/realid, for any updates prior to this deadline.

The DMV is open Monday to Friday, except for state and federal holidays. Walk-in customers are served as time permits. Therefore, appointments are highly encouraged to avoid long wait times. To book an appointment or for more information, please visit www.kauai.gov/DMV.

As a reminder, Kupuna Hour is only available at the Līhu‘e DMV location. It is for customers aged 65 and older and is from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m., with no appointments necessary.

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