Louisiana Residents Urged to Obtain REAL ID as Deadline Approaches

BATON ROUGE, La. – With the May 2025 federal deadline fast approaching, Louisiana residents are being urged to upgrade their driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards to REAL ID-compliant credentials. To accommodate demand, select Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) locations will open on three Saturdays this spring, allowing more people the opportunity to meet the new security standards.

The Baton Rouge OMV, along with locations in Alexandria, Houma, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Livingston, New Orleans, Monroe, Shreveport, and Westbank-Oakwood Center, will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 15, April 12, and May 3. Walk-ins are welcome, though appointments can be scheduled at www.expresslane.org/appointments.

Why REAL ID Matters for Black Communities

For African Americans in Baton Rouge and across the state, access to proper identification has long been a barrier in areas such as voting, travel, and economic mobility. The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was designed to enhance security, but for some, it presents yet another hurdle in an already complex system.

A REAL ID will be required to board domestic flights, enter certain federal buildings, and access military bases starting May 7, 2025. Without one, individuals will need a passport or another TSA-approved form of identification.

While the law applies to all Americans, Black residents in Louisiana must navigate the process carefully. Historically, bureaucratic red tape and documentation requirements have disproportionately impacted African Americans, particularly older citizens who may not have access to birth certificates or other necessary documents. This is why securing a REAL ID early is critical.

“We’ve seen cases where people have trouble getting identification due to name discrepancies, missing paperwork, or difficulty navigating the process,” said a local community advocate. “Ensuring Black residents in Baton Rouge and beyond are prepared is about more than just compliance—it’s about maintaining access to opportunities.”

What You Need to Know

A Louisiana REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID will display a gold circle with a star cutout in the top right corner. To obtain one, residents must visit an OMV field office or Public Tag Agent location in person and provide the required documents, including:

• Proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport)
• Social Security verification
• Two proofs of residency (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)

Those whose licenses are up for renewal can opt for a REAL ID at that time. However, residents who are not yet eligible for renewal may apply for a duplicate license with REAL ID compliance. Assistance is available through LOUIE, the Louisiana OMV virtual expert, at www.expresslane.org/REALID.

Preparing Ahead of the Deadline

As the deadline approaches, Baton Rouge residents are encouraged to spread awareness and assist family members, particularly elders, in obtaining the necessary documentation. Local churches, community organizations, and advocacy groups are stepping in to ensure that those who need help navigating the process are not left behind.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.expresslane.org.