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Real ID Requirements & Deadline

If you’re planning your summer vacation and starting to book flights, you may want to pull out your ID first and look for a little yellow star! Effective May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will enforce the Real ID Act, requiring ALL U.S. travelers aged 18 and older to present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights.

We have seen various deadlines extended over the past few years, but this appears to be the final deadline. SO if you haven’t gotten yours yet … don’t delay! The TSA has indicated that enforcement will be strict, and travelers should not expect leniency after the deadline.

What Is a Real ID?

A Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal security standards established by the Real ID Act of 2005. These IDs are marked with a gold star in the upper right corner of your ID. Some states issue Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) that also comply with Real ID requirements.

Acceptable Alternatives to Real ID

If you do not have a Real ID, the following documents are acceptable for domestic air travel and accessing federal facilities:

U.S. Passport or Passport Card
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
U.S. Military ID
Permanent Resident Card

How Can I Obtain a Real ID?

To acquire a Real ID, you must visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and provide:

Proof of full legal name (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form)
Two proofs of residency (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements)
Proof of lawful status in the U.S.

Be sure to check with your local DMV for specific requirements and to schedule an appointment if you’re traveling soon (processing times and costs vary by state). Also, keep in mind that appointments will likely fill up fast, so consider only booking an appointment if you’re traveling in the next few months. Otherwise, you may want to wait until after the deadline to allow other travelers to get their Real IDs by the deadline.