May 7 Is Closer Than You Think: Get Your REAL ID Now to Travel Without Trouble
As the clock ticks down to May 7, 2025, travelers in Jackson, Mississippi—and across the country—need to be aware of an important change: REAL ID enforcement is just around the corner.
This federal mandate means that anyone 18 or older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification, like a U.S. passport, to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.
In Mississippi, the REAL ID looks much like your regular driver's license, except for one key difference: a gold star in the upper right corner.
To get your REAL ID designation, you'll need to head to a Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver Service Bureau office with the right documents in hand. That includes proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), your Social Security number, and two documents verifying your Mississippi residency (think utility bills or bank statements).
If you're in Jackson, the DPS office at 1900 E. Woodrow Wilson Avenue is your go-to spot. To help beat the rush, DPS has opened several stations on select Saturdays—a smart move with the deadline fast approaching. The Jackson office will be open Saturday, April 12; Saturday, April 26; and Saturday, May 3, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sure, you could use a passport instead, but having a REAL ID makes everyday identification tasks simpler, whether you’re catching a flight or visiting a federal courthouse. Waiting too long could lead to delays or denied entry, so it’s wise to take care of it now.
Think of it as a small step toward smoother travel—and one less thing to worry about come May.
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