Arkansans Do You Have Your Real ID Yet? Deadline is Coming Soon

Just when you thought you still had plenty of time to get your Real ID, you find out the deadline to get your driver's license updated to the Real ID is soon in Arkansas, Texas and the rest of the country.

That deadline is fast approaching and on May 7, 2025. The federal government has extended the deadline a few times over the years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you are like me, the last time I went in to update my license was in 2019 and I wasn't really sure what to bring to make it a 'Real ID'. I remember them telling me that I could come in any time and upgrade my license. I just needed to bring in the papers required to prove that I am really me. I received my new license and went on with my life thinking I'll get to it soon. Fast forward to 2025 and you guessed right...I still haven't gone in to make it a Real ID.

According to KATV only about 700,000 people in Arkansas have made the move to  Real IDs which leaves over a million drivers who are in panic mode like me as they read about the deadline of May 7.

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration is sending out these reminders, especially since summer is on its way, and if you plan on flying anywhere, even in the states you will need a Real ID. You will also need it to get into certain government buildings like the Post Office!

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Here is What You Need to Bring With You to Update Your driver's license to a Real ID

There are 5 things you will need to bring with you.

Proof of Legal Presence-  This will be either your Birth Certificate or U.S. passport. You will need to bring one of these.

Proof of Identity - current school or work ID, a current license or ID, or a vehicle registration or title. You will need one of these.

Proof of Social Security Number -  You'll need one of these with your SS Number on it. Your Social Security card  or a W-2 form with your name and social security number or a pay stub from work with your name and social security number.

Proof of Residency - You will need 2 of the following. A utility bill like gas, water or electric bill in your name, a valid hunting or fishing license, a paycheck stub from within the last six months with your address or a bank account statement within the past six months.

So get ready because there is a bit more preparation than there used to be and I'll see you in line.