REAL ID Enforcement Begins May 7, 2025
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin enforcing REAL ID requirements on May 7, 2025, marking the end of nearly two decades of extensions since the REAL ID Act passed in 2005. Starting this date, all air travelers 18 years and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card, or an acceptable alternative like a U.S. passport, to board domestic commercial flights.
The enforcement affects an estimated 95 million Americans who still hold non-compliant state-issued IDs. TSA published the final rule in January 2025, confirming no further extensions will be granted after multiple deadline postponements since 2008.
Key Changes Taking Effect in 2025
Several major ID requirement updates are rolling out across the United States this year:
- Federal Enforcement: TSA checkpoints nationwide will reject non-compliant state IDs starting May 7, 2025
- Digital Driver's Licenses: Illinois launched mobile ID program November 18, 2025, becoming the largest state offering digital licenses
- Proposed TSA Fee: An $18 verification fee may apply for travelers without REAL ID who use alternative identity verification
- State Compliance: All 50 states, District of Columbia, and 5 U.S. territories now issue REAL ID-compliant cards
- Enhanced Screening: Non-compliant passengers face additional security screening and potential boarding denial
- Apple Wallet Integration: Digital ID support expanded to iPhone and Apple Watch for participating states
Additionally, the UK government announced plans for mandatory digital ID for employment checks by 2029, while the European Union requires member states to launch digital wallet programs by end of 2026.
Who Is Affected By These ID Requirements
The REAL ID deadline impacts domestic air travelers, federal facility visitors, and anyone entering nuclear power plants. However, different groups face varying compliance needs.
For Domestic Air Travelers
Every passenger 18 years or older boarding commercial flights within the United States must show REAL ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative. Children under 18 are not required to show ID when traveling with a companion. Passengers without compliant ID may face significant delays, additional screening, or be denied entry to the security checkpoint.
For International Travelers
International travelers already carry U.S. passports or passport cards, which serve as acceptable alternatives to REAL ID. These travelers are automatically compliant and do not need to obtain a REAL ID driver's license, though having one provides a convenient backup identification option.
For Non-Drivers and Those Without State IDs
Individuals who don't drive can obtain a REAL ID-compliant state identification card from their local DMV. The application process is identical to driver's licenses, requiring the same documentation proving identity, Social Security number, and residency.
How to Get Your REAL ID - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card requires visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with specific documentation:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of full legal name (birth certificate or passport), date of birth, Social Security number, and two proofs of principal residence address
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Visit your state DMV website to book an appointment, as walk-in availability may be limited due to high demand
- Complete Application Form: Fill out the REAL ID driver's license or ID card application online or at the DMV office
- Submit Documentation: Present all required documents in person for verification - photocopies are typically not accepted
- Pay Application Fee: Fees vary by state, typically ranging from $20-$90 depending on license type and validity period
- Receive Temporary ID: You'll get a paper temporary ID while your permanent REAL ID card is processed and mailed within 7-14 business days
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to ensure compliance with new ID requirements:
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement begins at all TSA airport checkpoints nationwide - no more extensions
- November 18, 2025: Illinois launched digital driver's license program via Apple Wallet for iPhone users
- Early 2026: Digital ID rollout continues to Samsung and Google Phone users in participating states
- December 31, 2026: EU member states must launch at least one national digital ID wallet program
- March 2027: European public and private services required to accept EUDI digital wallet credentials
- 2029: UK government plans mandatory digital ID for employment verification checks nationwide
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Show Up at the Airport Without a REAL ID?
You can still fly if you present an acceptable alternative form of identification such as a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, DHS Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, TSA PreCheck), or Enhanced Driver's License. If you have no acceptable ID, TSA may verify your identity through additional screening processes, but this could result in significant delays or denial of entry to the security checkpoint.
How Can I Tell If My Current Driver's License Is REAL ID Compliant?
REAL ID-compliant cards typically display a star symbol (★) in the upper right corner, though placement and design vary by state. Some states use a black star, gold star, or bear/flag symbol. Check your state DMV website or examine your license carefully - if you don't see a star marking, your ID is likely not compliant and you should upgrade before the May 7 deadline.
Are Digital Driver's Licenses Accepted at TSA Checkpoints?
Digital driver's licenses stored in Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or state-specific apps are accepted at select TSA checkpoints, but not all airports support them yet. It's recommended to carry your physical REAL ID-compliant card as backup. TSA is expanding digital ID acceptance throughout 2025-2026, but physical cards remain the most reliable option for air travel.
What You Need to Know Before May 7, 2025
The REAL ID enforcement deadline is firm with no additional extensions planned. If you haven't already upgraded to a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card, schedule your DMV appointment immediately to avoid last-minute rushes. Remember that processing times can take 2-3 weeks during peak periods.
For travelers who frequently fly domestically, obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license provides convenience over carrying a passport for every trip. However, if you already have a valid U.S. passport, you're automatically compliant and don't need to rush to the DMV. When preparing travel documents, ensure your passport photo meets current requirements to avoid delays at security checkpoints and immigration controls.
--- **Sources:** - [TSA publishes final rule on REAL ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025](https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2025/01/13/tsa-publishes-final-rule-real-id-enforcement-beginning-may-7-2025) - [REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions | TSA](https://www.tsa.gov/real-id/real-id-faqs) - [Illinois rolls out digital ID, driver's licenses](https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-politics/digital-drivers-licenses-illinois-apple-google-phone-airport/3852777/) - [Travelers without a REAL ID could be charged $18 by TSA under proposed rule](https://www.cnn.com/2025/11/20/travel/real-id-tsa-fee) - [Business digital ID for UK should launch in 2027](https://www.biometricupdate.com/202511/business-digital-id-for-uk-should-launch-in-2027-be-mandatory-within-two-years-tbi)