Brookhaven National Laboratory enforces nationwide identification requirements for federal site access as required by the federal REAL ID Act.

What this means for visitors

All visitors, users, guests, and contractors requesting access to the Lab site must provide an active REAL ID-compliant identification document to either the Laboratory Protection Division or the Guest User Visitor Center. A REAL ID driver’s license or ID card features a star in the upper right corner. Those who do not have a REAL ID driver license can also use:

The REAL ID driver's license does not prove U.S. citizenship. In addition to REAL ID requirements, all non-U.S. citizens must follow the Lab’s requirements for foreign national access.

How this affects employees

New employees hired at the Lab will need to show a REAL ID-compliant identification document to obtain their badge. Current employees are exempt from verification and may continue using their badge for site access but must provide a REAL ID-compliant identification when requesting a new badge or renewing an expiring employee, family, or retiree badge.

Travel

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require anyone flying to have REAL ID- compliant identification.

Public, approved, and on-site tours event access

Visitors seeking on-site access to public events must show Real ID-compliant identification.

Age exception

Anyone under the age of 18 who is not conducting work at the Lab does not need to show identification for site access.

Where to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license

NY State residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card at their local Department of Motor Vehicles office. Note that you will need to make an appointment online in advance of your visit.