May 7 is the nationwide deadline to get a Real ID both in Connecticut, and around the country.

Starting then, a normal driver's license will no longer be accepted to board domestic airline flights or to get into some federal buildings, with those places instead requiring the more secure Real ID, which Connecticut residents can recognize by the gold star in the top right corner.

The government says because more work is done to check and vet Real IDs, it is harder for people to have their identity stolen or for imposters to use fake ones.

In order to get one, U.S. Citizens and permanent residents need to go to either a DMV or certain AAA branch in person.

Once there, applicants need to provide two pieces that prove either citizenship or legal residence. That can include a birth certificate, a passport or an old in or out of state driver's license.

Officials will also need two things to prove residence in Connecticut, which can be recent pieces of mail, a bill, bank statement or school records.

While a Social Security card is not required, it is recommended, and a number will need to be provided regardless.

Anyone who has changed their name also needs to bring proof of that, like a marriage certificate.