Mississippi REAL ID: What You Need to Know
As of May 2023, domestic flights will require passengers to show a REAL ID-certified license, or document of equal status, before passing security.
Written by Max Werner
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Starting May 3, 2023,
Mississippi
drivers will have to present driver’s licenses
that meet REAL ID standards in order to board domestic flights. A driver’s license is a useful item for identification, voting, and (of course) driving. But the driver’s license is undergoing a major change. As of 2023, you’ll need to upgrade to a REAL ID-certified license to board a domestic flight.
If you’re unsure about what a REAL ID is,
Jerry
has you covered. We’ll explain everything you need to know about REAL IDs in Mississippi—from when you’ll need it to how to get your own. 
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What is REAL ID?
REAL ID requirements are an increased security measure that resulted from 9/11. In 2005, Congress passed a
REAL ID Act
to enhance ID documents like driver’s licenses. It's been a long time coming, but enforcement will begin in 2023. Who needs a REAL ID?
As of May 3, 2023, you will need a REAL ID to:
- Enter nuclear power plants
- Access military bases and certain federal facilities
- Board domestic, commercial flights
We get it—nuclear power plants or federal facilities might not top your must-see destinations for the next few years. But, if you’re a frequent domestic flyer, you should consider upgrading to a REAL ID soon.
Without a REAL ID-certified license, you’ll need to show your passport to TSA—or provide an
equally qualified form of identification
. Anyone under 18 does not need to show identification when traveling with a companion. Key Takeaway Starting May 2023, airports and specific government facilities will only accept REAL ID-certified Mississippi licenses.
How to get a Mississippi REAL ID
You can renew your Mississippi REAL ID or order a duplicate online via the
Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) website.
But upgrading to an enhanced, REAL ID-certified license will require an in-person visit. Here’s how:- Visit any DPS office (or schedule an appointment)
- Prove identity, Social Security number, and residency (two documents for residency)
- Pay a $24 license fee
With your new enhanced license, you’ll be able to board domestic flights. However, you won’t need a REAL ID to drive, vote, access hospitals, or complete bank transactions.
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Reviewed on 5/28/2023
How to save money on car insurance in Mississippi
You may soon need a REAL ID-certified license to take the skies—but no driver should have to pay sky-high prices for their
car insurance
coverage.As a licensed broker,
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Do I need a REAL ID?
Use the
Department of Homeland Security’s website
to see whether you should obtain a REAL ID. Frequent domestic flyers should consider an upgrade—but you don’t need a REAL ID-certified license to drive, vote, access hospitals, or use a bank.
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