Delawareans: Check Your Real ID Status Before May 7 or Risk Travel Delays

A critical deadline is approaching for Delaware residents: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 marks the final day to ensure your driver’s license or state ID is Real ID compliant. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has confirmed—there will be no extensions this time.

🔍 What to Look For: The Gold Star

To verify whether you’re Real ID compliant, check the top right corner of your driver’s license or state-issued ID.

• ✅ If you see a gold star, you’re good to go—no further action is needed.

• ❌ No gold star? Your ID is not federally compliant, and you’ll need to upgrade in person at the DMV.

✈️ What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

Starting May 7, 2025, residents without a Real ID will not be able to:

• Board domestic flights without additional ID (such as a passport)

• Access federal buildings and military bases

• Use their current ID for certain federal purposes

This could lead to significant travel delays or access issues.

🗣️ A Message from DelDOT

“With the Department of Homeland Security deadline of May 7, 2025 quickly approaching, now is the time to update your driver license if you plan on flying or need to enter a federal building,” said Shanté Hastings, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Transportation.

She added, “We encourage Delawareans to make an informed decision on whether a Real ID is right for them and visit our website to learn more and make sure you have your required Real ID documents before visiting a DMV location.”

Currently, about 85% of Delaware residents already hold a Real ID—are you one of them?

📍 How to Get a Real ID in Delaware

If you need to upgrade, visit a Delaware DMV location in person.
You’ll need:

• A valid birth certificate or passport

• Proof of Social Security number (such as your Social Security card or W-2)

• Two proofs of Delaware residency (such as a utility bill or bank statement)

For a full list of acceptable documents and more details, visit:
👉 secureid.dmv.de.gov

📌 Sussex County DMV Location & Hours:

Address: 23737 DuPont Blvd., Georgetown, DE
Hours:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

• Wednesday: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

✅ Final Reminder

Check for the gold star now.
If it’s not there, plan your DMV visit before May 7 to avoid being grounded—literally.