Louisiana Residents Urged to Secure REAL ID Before May 2025 Deadline

BATON ROUGE, La. – With the May 2025 federal deadline quickly approaching, Louisiana residents are being reminded to upgrade their driver’s licenses or state-issued identification cards to REAL ID-compliant credentials. To help meet the demand, select Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) locations will offer Saturday hours this spring, making it easier for residents to comply with the new security requirements.

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 residents can also schedule appointments at www.expresslane.org/appointments.

Why REAL ID Matters for Black Communities

For African Americans in Baton Rouge and throughout the state, obtaining proper identification has historically been a challenge, impacting access to voting, travel, and economic opportunities. While the REAL ID Act—enacted by Congress in 2005—aims to strengthen security, it also presents additional obstacles for those already facing systemic barriers.

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

The transition to REAL ID is particularly important for Black residents in Louisiana, who often face challenges such as bureaucratic red tape, name discrepancies, and missing documents—issues that disproportionately affect older citizens.

“We’ve seen many cases where people struggle to obtain identification due to paperwork errors or lack of documentation,” said a local community advocate. “For Black residents in Baton Rouge, ensuring access to a REAL ID isn’t just about compliance—it’s about maintaining mobility and opportunity.”

How to Obtain a REAL ID

A Louisiana REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card will feature a gold circle with a star cutout in the top right corner. To apply, residents must visit an OMV field office or a Public Tag Agent location in person and present the following required documents:

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

Residents with licenses up for renewal can upgrade to a REAL ID at that time. Those who are not yet eligible for renewal may apply for a duplicate license with REAL ID compliance.

For further assistance, residents can visit www.expresslane.org/REALID or consult LOUIE, the Louisiana OMV virtual expert.

With time running out, Louisiana residents are encouraged to act now to avoid last-minute delays and ensure they have the proper identification to meet federal requirements.