REAL ID Enforcement Begins May 7, 2025
The Transportation Security Administration officially confirmed in January 2025 that REAL ID enforcement will begin on May 7, 2025, with no further extensions planned. Starting on this date, all air travelers age 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued identification card, or another federally acceptable form of ID to board commercial aircraft for domestic flights.
This enforcement deadline comes after nearly two decades since the REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005. TSA spokesperson Dan Velez emphasized that the agency does not intend to delay the deadline again, making immediate preparation essential for millions of Americans.
Key Changes to U.S. Identification Requirements
The REAL ID enforcement impacts more than just air travel. Here's what changes on May 7, 2025:
- Domestic Air Travel: REAL ID or acceptable alternative required for all passengers 18+ boarding commercial flights within the United States
- Federal Facilities: REAL ID-compliant identification needed to enter federal buildings that require ID verification at entry points
- Military Bases: Access to military installations will require REAL ID-compliant identification for civilian visitors
- Nuclear Power Plants: Entry to nuclear facilities will mandate REAL ID or federally approved alternative identification
- State Compliance: All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 5 U.S. territories are now REAL ID compliant and actively issuing compliant cards
Standard driver's licenses will remain valid for everyday activities like driving, voting, and age verification. However, they will no longer be accepted for federal purposes after the May 7, 2025 deadline.
Who Is Affected by These Requirements
The REAL ID mandate affects different groups of travelers and ID holders in specific ways. Understanding your category helps you prepare appropriately.
For Domestic Air Travelers
If you fly within the United States, even occasionally, you must obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or use an acceptable alternative like a valid U.S. passport. Approximately 56% of Americans already have REAL ID-compliant identification, meaning roughly 100 million people still need to upgrade before May 7, 2025.
For Federal Employees and Contractors
Anyone who regularly accesses federal buildings, military bases, or secure facilities for work must obtain REAL ID immediately. Your current badge may not be sufficient if you need to enter different federal locations that require photo identification at the door.
For International Travelers
If you hold a valid U.S. passport, you already have an acceptable alternative to REAL ID and do not need to upgrade your driver's license specifically for air travel purposes. However, you may still want REAL ID for convenience in domestic situations.
How to Get Your REAL ID - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID requires visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with specific documentation. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process:
- Gather Identity Documents: Obtain one document proving your full legal name, date of birth, and citizenship or lawful status (U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, permanent resident card, or employment authorization document)
- Locate Social Security Proof: Bring your Social Security card, W-2 form showing your full SSN, or 1099 form with complete Social Security number clearly visible
- Collect Residency Documents: Prepare two different documents proving your current residential address, such as recent utility bills, bank statements, mortgage documents, rental agreements, or pay stubs dated within the last 90 days
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Many states require or strongly recommend appointments for REAL ID applications to reduce wait times – check your state DMV website and book ahead
- Complete Application Process: Visit your DMV with all required documents, complete the application form, have your photo taken meeting federal standards, and pay the state-specific fee (typically $20-$40 depending on your state)
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to stay compliant with REAL ID requirements:
- January 14, 2025: TSA published final rule confirming May 7, 2025 enforcement with no further extensions planned
- March-April 2025: Expect peak DMV traffic as procrastinators rush to comply – apply earlier to avoid long wait times
- May 6, 2025: Last day to travel domestically with non-REAL ID compliant driver's license or state ID card
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement begins nationwide at all TSA checkpoints and federal facilities requiring identification
- October 12, 2025: Hong Kong's old smart identity cards for residents born in/before 1969 become invalid as part of separate international ID modernization effort
Frequently Asked Questions
What If I Don't Have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025?
You can still fly domestically if you bring an acceptable alternative such as a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI), or enhanced driver's license from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont. Without REAL ID or an acceptable alternative, you will not be permitted through TSA security checkpoints for domestic flights.
How Can I Tell If My Current ID Is REAL ID Compliant?
REAL ID-compliant licenses and identification cards feature a star symbol (typically gold or black) in the upper right-hand corner of the card. Some states use different markers, so check your state DMV website if you're unsure. If your card doesn't have this marking, it's not REAL ID compliant.
Do Children Need REAL ID for Domestic Flights?
No, the REAL ID requirement only applies to travelers age 18 and older. Children under 18 do not need REAL ID-compliant identification to board domestic flights when traveling with a companion within the United States. TSA recommends children carry some form of ID, but it's not federally mandated.
Can I Use My Passport Instead of Getting REAL ID?
Yes, a valid U.S. passport or passport card is an acceptable alternative to REAL ID and will always be accepted for domestic air travel and federal facility access. Many frequent international travelers choose to rely on their passport rather than upgrading their driver's license, though having both provides maximum flexibility.
What You Need to Know About ID Photo Requirements
When applying for your REAL ID, your photo must meet specific federal standards for security and facial recognition purposes. The photo will be taken at your DMV appointment, but understanding requirements helps you prepare appropriately.
Additionally, if you're planning international travel or need passport photos for visa applications, ensure your photos meet the specific requirements for each document type. For travelers needing compliant passport photos or visa photos for over 950 document types across 172 countries, professional photo services can ensure your images meet exact government specifications before your application.