In response to acts of terrorism committed against the United States, and in an effort to ensure the safety of citizens, Congress passed the REAL-ID Act of 2005. This legislation modified US federal law pertaining to security, authentication, and issuance procedure standards for state drvier licenses and identification cards.
In order to comply with the requirements of this federal legislation, the Alabama Department of Public Safety has developed the STAR ID program. STAR ID is a step beyond an ordinary Alabama driver license or non-driver identification card, and it fully meets all requirements of federal law.
Once the provision of the REAL-ID goes into effect, those persons who do not possess a valid, unexpired US passport will need STAR ID to board commercial aircraft for domestic flights or to enter certain regulated federal facilities.
New regulations will go into effect December 1, 2020 for all residents in Alabama.
STAR ID is available to qualified individuals at any Driver License EXAMINING OFFICE operated by the Alabama Department of Public Safety. County probate judges and license commissioners will not be authorized to issue or renew STAR ID cards.
For more information and a complete list of required acceptable documents, visit the Alabama Department of Public safety’s website at www.dps.alabama.gov or call 877.567.1045