REAL ID Enforcement Begins May 7, 2025
Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will enforce REAL ID requirements at all U.S. airports for domestic flights. Every air traveler 18 years of age and older must present a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license or identification card to board commercial aircraft. The TSA published the final enforcement rule on January 13, 2025, ending years of deadline extensions.
This critical change affects millions of American travelers who have not yet upgraded to REAL ID-compliant documents. All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories are now issuing REAL ID-compliant credentials, making it easier than ever to obtain the required identification before the May 7 deadline.
How to Identify a REAL ID-Compliant Card
The easiest way to verify if your current identification meets federal standards is to look for specific visual markers. Here's what makes your ID REAL ID-compliant:
- Gold or Black Star: Most states feature a star in the upper right-hand corner of the card indicating REAL ID compliance
- California Bear + Star: California residents should look for a bear with a star symbol instead of just a star alone
- Enhanced Driver's License (EDL): States like Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont issue EDLs that are automatically REAL ID-compliant
- "Federal Limits Apply" Text: Non-compliant IDs often display this warning, indicating they cannot be used for federal purposes
However, it's important to note that the temporary paper card issued by the DMV after applying for REAL ID is not acceptable at TSA checkpoints. You must wait to receive your physical REAL ID card in the mail, which typically takes up to three weeks.
New Photo Requirements for REAL ID Cards
The REAL ID Act established specific standards for the digital photographs used on compliant identification cards. Understanding these requirements is crucial for ensuring your passport photo or ID photo meets federal standards.
Facial Feature Requirements
Your face must be clearly visible from the hairline to the chin and forward of the ears in the photograph. The photo must be free of shadows, and all facial features must be clearly distinguishable. While the regulation does not require full exposure of the hairline or ears, your face should be unobstructed for biometric verification purposes.
Religious Head Coverings
The REAL ID standards recognize that some individuals wear head coverings for religious or medical reasons. Head coverings are permitted in REAL ID photos, but they must not obscure facial features or create shadows on your face. The key requirement is that your face remains clearly visible and identifiable.
Photo Quality Standards
Additionally, REAL ID photos must meet technical specifications including proper lighting, neutral facial expression, and a plain background. These requirements align with international passport photo standards, making it easier to use the same photo for multiple identification documents if needed.
Who Is Affected by the May 7, 2025 Deadline
The REAL ID enforcement impacts millions of Americans who travel domestically by air. Understanding how this affects different groups can help you prepare accordingly.
For Domestic Air Travelers
If you fly within the United States and are 18 or older, you must have either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative such as a passport. Children under 18 are exempt from showing ID when traveling with a companion within the U.S. Travelers who arrive at the airport without proper identification after May 7, 2025, will be denied boarding.
For Non-Drivers and Seniors
You don't need a driver's license to obtain REAL ID—you can get a REAL ID-compliant state identification card instead. Visit your local DMV or motor vehicle agency to apply for a state ID card that meets REAL ID standards. This option is perfect for seniors, students, and others who don't drive but need compliant identification for air travel or access to federal facilities.
For Military Personnel and Federal Employees
Active duty and retired military members can use their military ID cards, including IDs issued to dependents, as acceptable alternatives to REAL ID. Similarly, federal employees can access secure federal facilities using their agency-issued credentials. However, these individuals may still want to obtain a REAL ID for convenience when traveling.
How to Get Your REAL ID Before the Deadline - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID requires visiting your state's DMV or motor vehicle agency in person. Here's the complete process:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security number (SSN card or W-2), and two proofs of residency (utility bills, lease agreement, or bank statements)
- Check Your State's Specific Requirements: Visit your state DMV website to confirm the exact documents needed, as requirements may vary slightly between states
- Schedule an Appointment: Many DMVs allow online appointment scheduling to reduce wait times—book your appointment at least 4-6 weeks before the May 7 deadline
- Visit the DMV in Person: Bring all required documents to your appointment; online or mail applications are not accepted for REAL ID due to identity verification requirements
- Pay the Fee and Wait for Your Card: Pay the applicable fee (varies by state, typically $20-30) and wait 2-3 weeks to receive your REAL ID card by mail
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID for Air Travel
If you don't have a REAL ID by May 7, you can still fly domestically using these TSA-approved alternative forms of identification:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card: The most widely accepted alternative; valid for both domestic and international travel
- Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler Cards: Includes Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST program cards
- Military and Government IDs: Active duty military ID, retired military ID, or Department of Defense civilian ID cards
- Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL): Available in Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont—these are automatically REAL ID-compliant
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC): For individuals who work in secure areas of ports and vessels
- Federally Recognized Tribal IDs: Photo identification cards issued by federally recognized Native American tribes
Moreover, permanent residents can use their permanent resident card (Green Card), while foreign nationals can use their government-issued passport for domestic travel within the United States.
Important Dates and Timeline for REAL ID Compliance
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to ensure you're prepared for REAL ID enforcement:
- January 13, 2025: TSA published the final rule establishing the phased enforcement framework for REAL ID requirements
- February-April 2025: TSA conducted nationwide awareness campaigns at major airports reminding travelers of the upcoming deadline
- May 7, 2025: Full REAL ID enforcement begins—non-compliant state IDs no longer accepted for domestic flights or federal facility access
- May 2025 and Beyond: Federal agencies will continue enforcing REAL ID requirements for accessing secure federal facilities, nuclear power plants, and military bases
- Ongoing: All states continue issuing REAL ID-compliant credentials to residents who apply with proper documentation
Frequently Asked Questions About REAL ID Requirements
Can I Still Fly If I Don't Have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025?
Yes, you can still fly domestically without a REAL ID if you present an acceptable alternative form of identification. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or DHS Trusted Traveler card (such as Global Entry) will allow you to board your flight. However, standard driver's licenses without the REAL ID star will no longer be accepted after the May 7 deadline.
Do I Need Both a REAL ID and a Passport for Domestic Travel?
No, you only need one valid form of TSA-approved identification for domestic flights. If you have a valid passport, you don't need to get a REAL ID to fly within the United States. Many frequent travelers choose to maintain both for convenience and as backup identification, but it's not required by TSA.
How Long Does It Take to Receive My REAL ID Card?
After applying in person at your DMV, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to receive your REAL ID card by mail. The temporary paper receipt you receive at the DMV is not acceptable at TSA checkpoints, so plan accordingly and apply well before any scheduled travel. During peak periods, processing may take longer, so applying at least 4-6 weeks before the deadline is recommended.
What You Need to Know About REAL ID Compliance
The May 7, 2025, REAL ID deadline represents a significant shift in U.S. domestic travel requirements after years of extensions. Federal enforcement is now in effect, and travelers without compliant identification will be denied boarding at airport security checkpoints. Furthermore, REAL ID affects not just air travel but also access to federal facilities and nuclear power plants nationwide.
Don't wait until the last minute to get your REAL ID—DMV offices across the country are experiencing increased demand as the deadline approaches. If you're planning to apply for a passport or other travel documents, ensure your passport photo meets requirements for faster processing. Visit your state's DMV website today to schedule an appointment, gather the necessary documents, and obtain your REAL ID-compliant identification before it's too late.