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. This requirement stems from the Real ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, which aimed to enhance national security measures for identification following the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission.
Understanding the Real ID Act
Federal minimum security requirements for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification documents are mandated by the Real ID Act. Compliance is marked by a star or other distinct symbol on the ID card, indicating that it meets federal requirements. 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?
Starting May 7, 2025, any person aged 18 years or older will require a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or alternative federally accepted identification for boarding:
- Domestic flight travel via federally regulated commercial airlines.
- Access to federal buildings, including military bases and nuclear power plants.
A Real ID, however, is not necessary for driving, voting, or buying alcohol. Without it, traveling people will have to present a valid U.S. passport or another TSA-accepted type of identification for air travel within the United States.
How to Get a Real ID?
To receive a Real ID, applicants will have to go to their local state DMV or equivalent authority in person. Among other things are required in most states:
- Identity proof (current passport or birth certificate)
- Social security number proof (Social Security card, W-2 form, etc.)
- 2 proofs of residency (utility bills or bank statements)
Personalized requirements can differ among states; therefore, it is better to consult your DMV’s website for state-specific information. Some states also offer the convenience of online appointment scheduling.
Current Adoption Rates and State Initiatives
As the deadline draws near, adoption rates of Real IDs vary from state to state. To illustrate, Tennessee has mailed out approximately 2.7 million Real IDs as it prepares for the next enforcement phase. In anticipation of the surge of applicants, more DMV locations have opened and brought in special appointment days as they stretch out business hours.
For those who do not get a Real ID in the specified timeframe, other acceptable identification cards for domestic travel include:
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card
- Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST are DHS trusted traveler cards
- U.S. military ID
Travelers are advised to check the entire list of approved identification on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website.
Possible Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to show on or after May 7, 2025, a Real ID-compliant license or valid alternative will lead to the denial of domestic flight boarding as well as impaired access to federal buildings. Travelers are suggested to obtain requisite identification in time to prevent embarrassment at the last moment.
With the Real ID compliance deadline of May 7, 2025, only a month away, travelers need to move fast to obtain the necessary identification. By learning about the requirements and starting the application process early, travelers can eliminate any possible inconvenience and continue to travel without interruption across the United States.
