KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE -- BL: Starting 7 May 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, or other acceptable identification, will be required for access to Keesler AFB. This is in accordance with a Department of Homeland Security mandate applying to all U.S. military installations.
What is the REAL ID ACT? The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005 following 9/11 Commission recommendations, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. It aims to improve identity verification and prevent the use of fraudulent credentials for accessing federal facilities (i.e., military bases), boarding commercial aircraft (i.e., TSA checkpoints) and entering nuclear power plants. The original enforcement date was scheduled for 1 October 2020 but after several extensions, the final enforcement date is 7 May 2025.
Base Access Impacts: Individuals who possess a valid Department of Defense-issued ID card will NOT be affected in their ability to enter military installations. Visitors requesting installation access who DO NOT have a REAL ID Act-compliant form of identification and cannot provide supplemental identify-proofing documents must be always escorted while on a military installation by a DoD ID card holder. This requirement affects visitors seeking unescorted access to Keesler AFB, including:
- Contractors and Subcontractors
- Visitors (even if in a vehicle with a CAC holder)
- Vendors and Delivery Services
- Service Providers (including childcare)
- Transportation Services (taxi, Uber, Lyft, etc.)
- Event Attendees [MACL, open base events (SOMS, Air Show), etc.]
- Veterans with service-connected disabilities
- Individuals with Agent, Assist, Aid or Caregiver Letters
Actions Required:
- Verify Your ID: Check your driver's license for a gold star or other indicator of REAL ID compliance. If your license isn't compliant, obtain a REAL ID or use an alternative form of ID (see “Acceptable Alternative IDs” below).
- Contracting Officers/Points of Contact: Ensure affiliated personnel have compliant IDs and update contract access rosters.
- Sponsors/Hosts: Inform visitors and guests about the REAL ID requirement.
- Delivery Vendors: Contact the Visitor Center to coordinate REAL ID compliance for deliveries.
Acceptable Alternative IDs:
Department of Defense Common Access Card (CAC)
Federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Card
U.S. Passport or Passport Card
Other federally accepted identification (see full list at www.dhs.gov/real-id)
A full list of acceptable alternative IDs is available at www.dhs.gov/real-id. This includes other federal, state and locally issued documents with photos, such as Enhanced Driver's Licenses, Tribal IDs and certain foreign passports and visas.
Where to Get More Information:
REAL ID Information: www.dhs.gov/real-id
State Compliance: www.dhs.gov/real-id-enforcement-brief
Keesler AFB Visitor Control Center: (228) 377-2595 or 81sfs.pass.id@us.af.mil
Your cooperation is crucial for ensuring base defense and a smooth transition to this federal requirement.