REAL ID Act
A major travel and security change is on the horizon for Americans: starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will begin enforcing the REAL ID Act, a regulation that requires travelers and individuals accessing certain federal facilities to carry identification that meets specific security standards. If you’re planning to fly within the United States or visit a federal building, now is the time to ensure your identification is REAL ID-compliant.
Here’s everything you need to know to prepare.
What Is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the security concerns following the 9/11 attacks. Its purpose is to establish consistent, secure standards for state-issued identification, making it more difficult for fraudulent IDs to be used.
REAL ID-compliant licenses and ID cards are issued by your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), but they must follow federal guidelines. These IDs are easily recognized by a star in the upper right-hand corner—although some states use different icons (such as a gold circle or a black star), they all signal the same thing: compliance.
Why It Matters: REAL ID and Air Travel
Starting May 7, 2025, if you try to board a domestic flight in the U.S. and your ID isn’t REAL ID-compliant—or you don’t have an alternative federally accepted document—you won’t be allowed through airport security.
This rule also applies to:
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Entering federal buildings such as military bases or federal courthouses
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Visiting certain nuclear facilities
Children under 18 won’t need a REAL ID if they’re traveling with an adult who has compliant identification.
What If You Don’t Have a REAL ID?
If you don’t have a REAL ID by the deadline, you can still travel domestically—but only if you use one of the following acceptable alternatives:
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A valid U.S. passport
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A passport card
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A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler Program card, such as Global Entry or NEXUS
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A permanent resident card (Green Card)
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A military ID
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An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) issued by certain states (only available in a few states like Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and Washington)
How to Get a REAL ID
The process of obtaining a REAL ID is similar to getting a standard driver’s license, but you’ll need to bring more documentation with you. You must visit your local DMV office in person—REAL IDs cannot be issued online.
Here’s what you typically need to bring:
1. Proof of Identity
Examples:
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A certified birth certificate
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A valid U.S. passport
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Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
2. Proof of Social Security Number
Examples:
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Your Social Security card
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A W-2 form or pay stub with your full SSN
3. Proof of Residency
Bring two documents that show your name and address, such as:
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A utility bill
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A lease or rental agreement
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A bank statement
4. Proof of Lawful Status
This overlaps with the proof of identity, but foreign nationals must also show documentation of lawful presence in the U.S.
Tips for a Smooth Application
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Make an appointment at your local DMV—walk-ins are allowed in many places, but appointments are faster.
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Double-check requirements on your state’s DMV website. Each state has slightly different rules or additional paperwork requirements.
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Don’t wait until the last minute. As the May 7 deadline approaches, DMV offices are expected to become more crowded.
How to Know if Your ID Is REAL ID-Compliant
Take a look at your current driver’s license or state ID. If you see a star, you’re likely good to go. If you see a note that says “Not for Federal Identification” or it lacks a star altogether, you’ll need to upgrade.
Some people mistakenly believe they already have a REAL ID, especially if they recently renewed their license. It’s best to confirm directly with your state’s DMV to be sure.
Why the Delay?
Originally, the REAL ID enforcement deadline was set for 2008, but it has been postponed multiple times due to state compliance issues and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. The current deadline of May 7, 2025, is expected to be final.
Final Thoughts: Plan Now, Travel Easy
While it might feel like a hassle, getting your REAL ID is a one-time effort that could save you from travel headaches and complications down the road. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a federal employee, or just want to keep your options open, making sure your identification is compliant now will set you up for stress-free travel and access in the future.
Visit your state’s DMV website today to start your application, schedule your appointment, and gather the documents you need.
