A gold star on an Indiana driver's license signifies that the credential is a Real ID compliant card, meeting federal identification standards. This star is typically located in the upper right corner of the license.
Understanding the Gold Star on Your Indiana Driver's License
The presence of a gold star on your Indiana driver's license or identification card indicates that the document has been issued in compliance with strict federal identification standards. This is part of the nationwide Real ID Act, which aims to enhance security for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards.
How an Indiana Real ID is Issued
To obtain an Indiana Real ID compliant credential, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) requires a thorough verification process. A gold star Real ID is only issued after the BMV has verified several crucial pieces of information about the card holder. This includes:
- Identity: Confirmation of the applicant's true legal name.
- Social Security Number: Verification of the applicant's Social Security number.
- Lawful Status: Proof of the applicant's lawful presence in the United States.
- Proof of Indiana Residency: Documentation demonstrating current residency in Indiana.
This rigorous verification process ensures that the issued Real ID is a secure and reliable form of identification.
Why a Real ID is Important
Having a Real ID compliant driver's license with the gold star offers significant advantages, especially when interacting with federal agencies and services.
- Federal Facility Access: It is required for accessing certain federal facilities, military bases, and nuclear power plants.
- Domestic Air Travel: Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID compliant license will be required for all individuals aged 18 and over to board federally regulated commercial aircraft for domestic flights. Without it, other acceptable forms of identification, such as a U.S. passport, will be necessary.
Key Features of an Indiana Real ID
An Indiana driver's license that complies with Real ID standards is easily identifiable by its distinct gold star.
- Location: The gold star is prominently displayed in the upper right corner of the credential.
- Purpose: It acts as a clear visual indicator of federal compliance.
To help understand the difference, here's a brief comparison:
| Feature | Indiana Real ID (with gold star) | Standard Indiana Driver's License (without gold star) |
|---|---|---|
| Identification Mark | Gold star in the upper right corner | No gold star |
| Federal Compliance | Complies with federal identification standards (Real ID Act) | Does not meet Real ID Act federal standards |
| Verification Process | Requires verification of identity, SSN, lawful status, and residency | Standard verification process |
| Domestic Air Travel | Acceptable for domestic air travel post-May 7, 2025 | May not be accepted for domestic air travel post-May 7, 2025* |
| Federal Facility Access | Accepted for entry into most federal facilities | May not be accepted for entry into most federal facilities |
*Individuals without a Real ID will need an alternative acceptable form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, to board domestic flights.
For more information on Indiana driver's licenses and identification, you can visit the official Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles website.
