BATON ROUGE, La. – With the May 2025 federal deadline quickly approaching, Louisiana residents are being reminded to upgrade their driver’s licenses or state-issued identification cards to REAL ID-compliant credentials. To help meet the demand, select Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) locations will offer Saturday hours this spring, making it easier for residents to comply with the new security requirements.
The Baton Rouge OMV, along with locations in Alexandria, Houma, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Livingston, New Orleans, Monroe, Shreveport, and Westbank-Oakwood Center, will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 15, April 12, and May 3. Walk-ins are welcome, though residents can also schedule appointments at www.expresslane.org/appointments.
Why REAL ID Matters for Black Communities
For African Americans in Baton Rouge and throughout the state, obtaining proper identification has historically been a challenge, impacting access to voting, travel, and economic opportunities. While the REAL ID Act—enacted by Congress in 2005—aims to strengthen security, it also presents additional obstacles for those already facing systemic barriers.
Beginning May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be required to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, and access military bases. Without one, individuals will need a passport or another TSA-approved form of identification.…