BOISE, Idaho — The Idaho Department of Transportation launched a new campaign Tuesday to bring more awareness about the importance of getting a Star Card.
Since the Gem State first issued the Star Card last year, ITD tells us only 5 percent of licensed drivers in Idaho have applied for one. That's 70,000 out of 1.25 million.
Starting next year, on the first of October, ITD says Idahoans will need a Star Card or another form of ID like a passport or military ID, to fly commercially or access federal facilities.
Officials tell us for those that are debating getting a Star Card, there are advantages that come with it.
“Folks who want to fly here domestically within the United States, rather than having to carry a passport or military ID they can use their normal driver’s license or ID that has the Star Card indication on it, and you'll be able to board these flights come October first 2020,” said Alberto Gonzalez, DMV administrator for ITD.
The Star Card is simply a driver's license or state ID card with a special star in the upper right corner.
If you have an ID without the star you will still be able to use it for most functions like driving or voting - just not for flying or to access federal buildings.
The cost of the Star Card is the same as getting a driver’s license without the star.
You can apply for a Star Card at all county driver's licensing offices, but you'll need to bring a few extra documents with you, or you'll be turned away.