MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Implementation of the REAL ID Act begins May 7, 2025. Anyone 18 years or older who plans to visit MacDill Air Force Base will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. It was enacted in response to the 9/11 Commission's recommendation to improve the reliability and accuracy of identification documents, making it more difficult for terrorists to obtain fake IDs.
Starting May 7, 2025, visitors requesting access will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or must present a second form of identification along with their non-REAL ID-compliant identification (Driver’s License).
Acceptable forms of secondary identification include:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Military ID card (Common Access Card or CAC, DoD retired ID card)
- Permanent resident card (Green Card)
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Enhanced Driver's License (EDL)
- Other forms of identification accepted by the Department of Homeland Security
This applies to everyone, including, but not limited to the following:
- Vendors
- Dependents aged 18 and older
- Service Providers
- Veterans with service-connected disabilities
- Contractors
- Visitors
- Transportation services (taxi, limo, ride share)
- Agent, Assist, Aid, Care Giver Letters
- Au Pairs, Child Care Providers
REAL ID-compliant cards will have a star marking on the upper top portion of the card. If the card does not have a star marking, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won’t be accepted as proof of identity.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, you'll need to visit your state's driver's license agency for instructions.
Note: The specific requirements for Florida are provided at the following website: https://www.flhsmv.gov/driver-licenses-id-cards/. It's best to check the website for the most up-to-date information. You can find a link to your state's DMV here: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
For additional information and frequently asked questions, visit https://www.dhs.gov/real-id and https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-faqs
For base access information, contact the MacDill VCC (813) 828-2737, Ext. 4, located at the Dale Mabry Gate, 6801 South Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, Florida.