Wednesday, April 23rd 2025, 12:22 pm
More than 2 million Oklahomans have now made the switch to a REAL ID, bringing the state’s compliance rate to about 42% ahead of the federal enforcement deadline.
While a REAL ID will be required for boarding domestic flights and entering certain federal facilities, travelers can still use a valid U.S. passport or active military ID as acceptable alternatives. Officials also noted that residents will still be able to apply for a REAL ID even after the deadline.
One traveler, Darcie Ries shared that during recent trips, TSA agents repeatedly reminded her of the upcoming requirement. “I’m planning on traveling in about two months to back down to Florida to see my daughter and was reminded multiple times through TSA that this is a need,” Ries said.
Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. residents will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings. The REAL ID is part of a national effort to standardize security across state-issued IDs and is marked by a gold star in Oklahoma.
Residents who plan to fly within the U.S. or access federal facilities after the deadline will need one, unless they use a valid passport or other federally accepted ID.
To get a REAL ID in Oklahoma, applicants must bring proof of identity, their Social Security number (the physical card is not required), two proofs of Oklahoma residency, and legal name change or immigration documents if applicable.
Read more: REAL ID: What Oklahomans need to know before the deadline in May
Service Oklahoma is expanding its hours to help more residents obtain a REAL ID. Several locations across the state are offering evening appointments on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7–8 p.m., starting April 7. Select offices will also open on Saturdays in May from 12–5 p.m., and during the week of May 5–9, some locations will stay open every evening from 6–8 p.m. These expanded hours will continue through the end of 2025.
Here are the six locations offering extended weekday and evening hours:
Additionally, the following offices will be open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October:
To make an appointment, visit Service Oklahoma's official website.
Read more: When and where can I get a REAL ID in Oklahoma?
The key to a smooth REAL ID application is preparation. According to officials, the process is simple if you have the right documents. If you have a valid passport and your driver’s license shows your current address, officials say you’ll only need one additional proof of residency, like a utility bill or lease. Officials say you don’t need your actual Social Security card; just knowing your number will suffice.
However, if you don’t have a passport, officials say you’ll need a certified birth certificate that matches the name on your current ID. If your name has changed, officials say to bring legal documents like a marriage license or court order to show the change. And if your address doesn’t match what’s on your license, you’ll need to provide two pieces of official mail — no junk mail — that show your name and current address.
Read more: What the Tag Agency wants you to know about REAL IDs
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