Getting a Star ID in Alabama, compliant with the REAL ID Act, requires careful preparation. This guide details the necessary documents to ensure a smooth application process. Understanding these requirements will save you time and potential frustration.
Understanding Alabama's Star ID Requirements
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) issues Star IDs, which meet the federal REAL ID standards. This means they're acceptable for federal identification purposes, such as boarding domestic flights or accessing federal facilities. The key is providing verifiable proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.
Required Documents for Alabama Star ID Application
To obtain an Alabama Star ID, you'll need to provide original documents, not copies. ALEA will verify them and retain copies. The specific documents needed fall into three categories:
1. Proof of Identity
You must present one document from this category:
- Certified birth certificate: Issued by the state or U.S. territory where you were born. Hospital-issued birth certificates are generally not accepted.
- Valid U.S. passport: Ensure it's unexpired or recently expired.
- Consular report of birth abroad: This document is issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Certificate of naturalization: Proves you’ve become a U.S. citizen.
- Certificate of citizenship: Shows you're a U.S. citizen by birth or derivation.
2. Proof of Social Security Number
Provide one document from this list:
- Social Security card: The original card is required.
- W-2 form: Shows your Social Security number and is issued by your employer.
- SSA-1099 form: Issued by the Social Security Administration.
- Pay stub: Should clearly display your full name and Social Security number. (Note: This is less reliable than the other options and may not always be accepted, so it is best to bring a more reliable form of proof.)
3. Proof of Alabama Residency
You must present two documents from this list. These must show your current Alabama address:
- Utility bill: Gas, electric, water, or other utility bill showing your name and address. Must be less than 60 days old.
- Bank statement: Your bank statement should clearly display your name and address. Must be less than 60 days old.
- Mortgage statement: Recent statement showing your name and property address in Alabama.
- Lease agreement: Signed rental agreement clearly showing your name and address in Alabama.
- Government check: A check issued by a governmental agency displaying your name and address.
Important Considerations
- Document Validity: Ensure all documents are current and unexpired. Outdated documents will be rejected.
- Name Consistency: All documents should show the same name. If there are discrepancies, you may need additional documentation to explain them.
- Address Consistency: Similar to name consistency, all documents showing your address should match your application.
- Appointment: Scheduling an appointment at your local ALEA Driver License Examining Office is highly recommended to avoid long wait times. You can find appointment scheduling options on the ALEA website.
By gathering the correct documentation beforehand, you can streamline the Star ID application process and ensure you receive your compliant identification quickly and efficiently. Remember to check the official ALEA website for the most up-to-date requirements and to schedule your appointment.
