Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Real Id topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Department of Safety outlines Real ID preparation, deadlines and document requirements
Summary
Department of Safety officials told the House Transportation Committee that the federal Real ID requirement takes effect May 7, 2025; they described appointment capacity, document requirements, and outreach plans.
Department of Safety officials told the Tennessee House Transportation Committee on Feb. 18, 2025, that the federal Real ID requirement for domestic commercial flights and access to certain federal facilities will be enforced beginning May 7, 2025.
Assistant Commissioner Russell Shoop (Department of Safety) summarized what applicants must bring to obtain a Real ID: proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, a Social Security number, and two documents proving Tennessee residency; documentation of any name changes is also required. Shoop said the department opened more appointment slots — “over 1,400 additional Real ID appointments” — across driver service centers to address expected demand.
Shoop told the committee that the department began issuing Real IDs in July 2019 and provided counts for uptake: “about 2,700,000 Tennesseans that have chosen to get their Real ID,” and a staff member later described roughly 2.9 million Real IDs among about 5.8 million licensed Tennessee drivers (about 47%). Shoop and other department staff emphasized that Real ID is optional: travelers may instead use a passport or passport card to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.
Officials described an outreach and appointment plan. The department said it will host Real ID events for members and staff on March 25–26 (appointments requested and documents should be uploaded in advance for faster processing). The department also described an ongoing awareness campaign through media interviews, its website, and notices tied to license renewals and vehicle registration mailings. Shoop said applicants should allow time for Real ID printing and delivery after completing the office visit.
Committee members asked about special cases: Shoop described a specialized handling unit that works with applicants who have complex name histories (multiple marriages/divorces) or difficulty locating documentary proof. On courthouse access and federal exceptions for defendants lacking Real ID, department staff said that issue would be best addressed with federal partners and court officials and that they would follow up with additional information.
The Department of Safety urged users to make appointments, upload documents in advance, and to use available alternatives (passport or passport card) where appropriate.
