How to Tell If Your Wyoming Driver’s License Is REAL ID Compliant

As new travel security regulations approach, many Wyoming residents are asking: is my driver’s license REAL ID compliant?

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established stricter federal standards for identification used for domestic air travel and entry into certain federal facilities. Wyoming was one of the early adopters, becoming compliant with these standards in 2011. As a result, most Wyoming-issued licenses already meet REAL ID requirements.

Starting May 7, anyone flying within the United States will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another accepted form of identification, such as a US passport. A REAL ID does not replace a passport for international travel but will be necessary for boarding domestic flights and accessing some federal buildings.

To determine whether your Wyoming driver’s license is REAL ID compliant, check the upper-right corner of your card. If you see a black circle with a white star inside, your ID is compliant. (Before 2019, Wyoming used a gold star, which has since been updated to the black-and-white design.)

If your license lacks this symbol and you need to update it, visit your nearest WYDOT Driver Services location. Most long-time Wyoming residents already hold a compliant license, but newer residents may still need to update theirs.

The Department of Homeland Security emphasizes that the REAL ID program does not create a federal database of license holders. States continue to issue their own licenses and maintain control of their records. The goal of REAL ID is to enhance security by standardizing identification requirements nationwide.

Travelers without a compliant ID or an alternative (like a passport) after May 7 may face delays, extra screening, or even be denied access to TSA checkpoints.

For more information or to update your license, visit dot.state.wy.gov.