The deadline for receiving a Real ID is quickly nearing. Starting May 7, 2025, all American travelers 18 years and older will need to show a Real ID-approved driver’s license or a qualified substitute type of identification in order to get on domestic flights and visit certain federal buildings. The requirement was born out of the Real ID Act passed by Congress in 2005 to increase national security requirements for identification based on recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission.
Understanding the Real ID Act
The Real ID Act sets federal minimum security standards for state driver’s licenses and identification cards. The fact that a card is compliant is marked by a star or certain symbol on the card, indicating that the ID is compliant with federal standards. Although the Act was enacted in 2005, its implementation has been delayed several times, with the last deadline being May 7, 2025.
Who Needs a Real ID?
From May 7, 2025, anyone 18 years or older will require a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or other approved identification to:
- Get on federally regulated commercial airlines for flights within the country.
- Enter federal buildings, such as military installations and nuclear facilities.
It’s worth noting that a Real ID is not required for things like driving, voting, or buying alcohol. But without one, travelers will have to show a valid U.S. passport or other TSA-approved form of identification on domestic air travel.
How to Get a Real ID
In order to obtain a Real ID, applicants will need to go to their state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or comparable agency in person. The documents that are needed generally are:
- Documentation of identity (e.g., current U.S. passport or birth certificate)
- Documentation of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card or W-2 form)
- Two forms of residency verification (for instance, utility bills or bank statements)
Individualized needs can differ by state, so it’s best to visit your state’s DMV website for specific details. A few states also provide online scheduling to make it easier.
Current Adoption Rates and State Initiatives
With the deadline closing in, rates of adoption of Real IDs by state differ. For example, Tennessee has sent out about 2.7 million Real IDs as it gets ready for the next enforcement date. In anticipation of the upsurge of applicants, additional DMV offices have opened up and introduced special appointment days as they extend operating hours.
For those who fail to obtain a Real ID within the timeframe, other forms of identification that are accepted for domestic travel are:
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card.
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST).
- U.S. military ID.
Travelers are encouraged to review the full list of accepted identification on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website.
Possible Consequences of Non-Compliance
Not displaying a Real ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative on or after May 7, 2025, may result in denied boarding of domestic flights and restricted entry into certain federal buildings. In order to avoid inconvenience during travel, it’s recommended to get the necessary identification well in time.
With the Real ID enforcement date of May 7, 2025, just one month away, travelers must act quickly to acquire the required identification. By educating themselves on the requirements and beginning the application process now, travelers can avoid any potential hassle and still travel without interruption throughout the United States.
