REAL ID Requirements Take Effect May 2025
Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin full enforcement of REAL ID requirements at airport security checkpoints nationwide. Every air traveler aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license or identification card, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification, to board domestic commercial flights.
The deadline marks the end of a 20-year implementation period since the REAL ID Act was passed in 2005. While the deadline has been extended multiple times, TSA officials have confirmed that May 7, 2025, is the final enforcement date with no further extensions planned.
Key Changes to Airport Security ID Requirements
The new enforcement affects millions of American travelers and fundamentally changes what identification is accepted at TSA checkpoints:
- Standard Driver's Licenses No Longer Accepted: Non-compliant state-issued IDs without the REAL ID star marking will be rejected for domestic air travel
- Age Requirement: All travelers 18 years and older must comply; minors under 18 are exempt when traveling with a companion
- Federal Facility Access: REAL ID requirements also apply to accessing federal facilities and nuclear power plants
- Phased Enforcement Possible: Federal agencies have flexibility to implement phased enforcement between May 7, 2025, and May 5, 2027
- Current Compliance Rate: Only 81% of U.S. travelers currently have REAL ID-compliant licenses or acceptable alternatives
TSA Administrator David Pekoske emphasized that travelers without proper identification can expect significant delays, additional screening, and potentially being denied entry through security checkpoints if their identity cannot be verified.
Who Is Affected By The New ID Card Requirements
The REAL ID enforcement impacts different groups of travelers in various ways. Understanding your status helps you prepare properly.
For Domestic Air Travelers
Anyone flying within the United States aged 18 or older must have compliant identification starting May 7, 2025. If you only have a standard driver's license without the REAL ID star, you'll need to upgrade it before your next flight or bring an acceptable alternative like a passport.
For International Travelers
If you regularly travel internationally and already have a valid U.S. passport, you're fully compliant and don't need a REAL ID license. Your passport serves as an acceptable alternative for both domestic and international flights.
For Drivers Who Don't Fly
If you don't fly and don't need to access federal facilities, getting a REAL ID is optional. Standard driver's licenses remain valid for driving purposes only, though states may eventually phase out non-compliant licenses entirely.
How to Get a REAL ID-Compliant License - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID requires visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency with specific documents:
- 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, bank statements, lease agreements)
- Check Your State's Requirements: Visit your state DMV website to confirm specific document requirements, as they vary slightly by state
- Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at your local DMV to avoid long wait times, as REAL ID processing requires in-person verification
- Bring Original Documents: Present original or certified copies of all required documents; photocopies are not accepted for REAL ID applications
- Pay the Fee: REAL ID fees vary by state, typically ranging from $10 to $30 in addition to standard renewal fees
- Get Your Photo Taken: DMV staff will take your photo following federal biometric standards to ensure your passport photo meets REAL ID requirements
- Receive Your License: Most states mail REAL ID licenses within 10-15 business days; temporary paper licenses may not be accepted by TSA
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to ensure compliance:
- January 14, 2025: TSA published final rule establishing phased enforcement guidelines for federal agencies
- May 7, 2025: Full REAL ID enforcement begins at TSA checkpoints nationwide for domestic air travel
- May 5, 2027: All federal agencies must achieve 100% REAL ID enforcement with no exceptions
- Ongoing Through 2025-2026: States continue issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses and conducting public awareness campaigns
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID Licenses
If you don't have a REAL ID yet, several alternative documents are accepted by TSA:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card: Valid for both domestic and international travel, serving as the most versatile option
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST program cards are accepted
- Military IDs: Active duty and retired military identification cards, including dependent IDs
- Permanent Resident Card: Green cards and other DHS-issued immigration documents
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC): Issued to workers requiring unescorted access to secure transportation areas
- Native American Tribal IDs: Enhanced tribal cards issued by federally recognized tribes
How to Identify REAL ID-Compliant Cards
Determining whether your current license meets REAL ID standards is simple. Look for these indicators:
REAL ID-compliant licenses feature a gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner of the card. The star's design varies by state, but it clearly indicates federal compliance. Additionally, some states use text like "REAL ID" or "Federal Limits Apply" for non-compliant licenses.
If your license lacks the star marking, contact your state DMV immediately to schedule an upgrade appointment. Processing times can take 2-4 weeks, so don't wait until the last minute before your next flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Show Up at the Airport Without a REAL ID?
Starting May 7, 2025, TSA will not accept non-compliant state-issued IDs for domestic flights. You'll face delays, additional screening, and possibly be denied boarding if your identity cannot be verified through alternative means. Bring a passport or other acceptable alternative if you don't have a REAL ID license.
Do I Need Both a REAL ID and a Passport?
No, you only need one valid form of identification for domestic travel. If you have a valid U.S. passport, you don't need a REAL ID license for airport security. However, many travelers prefer getting a REAL ID license for convenience since carrying a passport isn't always practical.
Can I Use My Passport Photo for My REAL ID Application?
No, DMV offices take new photos on-site as part of the REAL ID application process. The photo must meet specific federal biometric standards for facial recognition systems. However, knowing the proper passport photo requirements can help you prepare for any future travel document needs through services like VisaPics.
Does REAL ID Apply to International Flights?
No, international flights require a valid passport regardless of REAL ID status. The REAL ID requirement only applies to domestic air travel within the United States and U.S. territories. You'll still need your passport for any international destinations.
Are Children Required to Have REAL ID?
No, children under 18 are exempt from REAL ID requirements when traveling with a companion. TSA does not require minors to show identification for domestic flights, though airlines may have their own ID policies for unaccompanied minors.
Will Standard Driver's Licenses Still Be Valid for Driving?
Yes, non-REAL ID compliant licenses remain valid for driving, voting, and other state-level purposes. The REAL ID requirement only affects federal purposes like boarding commercial aircraft and entering federal facilities. However, states may eventually discontinue issuing non-compliant licenses.
What You Need to Know Before May 2025
The May 7, 2025, deadline is firm, with no further extensions planned by DHS or TSA. Federal agencies have spent two decades preparing for this enforcement, and the infrastructure is ready for full implementation. Don't risk missing your flight or facing security delays.
Take action now if you haven't already upgraded to a REAL ID-compliant license or verified you have an acceptable alternative. With nearly 20% of travelers still lacking proper identification, DMV offices may experience high volumes as the deadline approaches. Whether you choose to get a REAL ID, ensure your passport photo meets requirements, or verify your visa photo specifications for international travel, preparing early prevents last-minute stress and ensures smooth travel experiences for years to come.