The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) is informing domestic travelers that starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative will be necessary to pass security checkpoints at airports without delays.
REAL ID-compliant credentials, issued by the state, will have a specific marking. Alternatives to a state-issued REAL ID credential are also available, and a comprehensive list of acceptable identification can be found on the official TSA website.
In Hawai‘i, approximately 96% of all driver’s licenses and state IDs are REAL ID Gold Star-compliant. Those without a star in a circle on their license or state ID should consider scheduling an appointment to upgrade their ID.
For appointments and more information, county DMV offices can be contacted through their respective websites:
– City and County of Honolulu: https://www.honolulu.gov/cms-csd-menu/site-csd-sitearticles/26204-services-and-locations-listings.html
– Maui County: https://www.mauicounty.gov/2125/DMV-Wait-Times
– Hawai‘i County: https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/departments/finance/vehicle-registration-licensing
– Kaua‘i County: https://www.kauai.gov/DriversLicense
