Do I need a Mississippi REAL ID? Here’s what to know before the deadline
The deadline to obtain a REAL ID is fast approaching. Starting Wednesday, May 7, any U.S. resident taking a domestic flight will be required to show either a passport or a REAL ID.
What is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID is a form of federal identification with strict standards that were established in 2005. It can be issued as a driver’s license, a driver’s permit or an identification card. The ID has a star in the upper right corner.
You need a REAL ID to:
- Fly
- Access some federal buildings
- Visit a military base
Are REAL ID’s mandatory?
Short answer, not really.
According to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, you can use a valid U.S. passport for every location that will require a REAL ID. But, if you do not travel outside of the U.S., a REAL ID is faster and cheaper to get.
You will not need a REAL ID to drive, vote, make a bank transaction, visit a hospital, go to court or receive federal benefits.
What will you need to apply for a REAL ID?
To get a REAL ID, you will need the following:
- Your social security card or any official document with your social security number on it (like a W-2 tax form or pay stub)
- A certified copy of your birth certificate
- Two proofs of your Mississippi residency (in other words, your utility bills, bank statements or voter registration card)
When and where can you obtain a REAL ID?
You can apply for a REAL ID at any Mississippi driver license station.
The Driver Service Bureau is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Here are the locations in South Mississippi:
- 16741, Hwy. 67 S, Biloxi
- 7886 Hwy. 57, Gautier
- 16603 Hwy. 603, Kiln
- 917 Goodyear Blvd., Picayune
- By appointment only in the Gulfport Airport near Baggage Claim two.
In light of the May 7 deadline, some Mississippi’s Driver Service Bureau extended hours and days of operation.
Starting Saturday, April 12, the Biloxi office will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office, which is located at 16741, Hwy. 67 S, will be closed Easter weekend, but will resume Saturday hours on April 26 and May 3. You may schedule an appointment online, but walk-ins are also welcome.
In addition to Biloxi, Saturday hours will be available at locations in Brookhaven, Greenwood, Hattiesburg, Jackson, Meridian, Nesbit, New Albany, Pearl and Tupelo.
This story was originally published April 11, 2025 at 8:18 AM.
