REAL ID Enforcement Officially Begins May 7, 2025
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published its final rule on January 13, 2025, confirming that REAL ID enforcement will begin on May 7, 2025. Starting this date, all travelers aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card to board domestic flights and access federal facilities.
This marks the end of a multi-year transition period that has been extended several times since the REAL ID Act was passed in 2005. The new requirements will affect millions of Americans, with current estimates showing only 61.2% of driver's licenses and IDs in circulation meet REAL ID standards.
Key Changes Taking Effect May 7, 2025
The TSA's final rule establishes specific requirements that will impact travelers nationwide. Here's what changes:
- Mandatory REAL ID for Air Travel: All passengers 18+ must show REAL ID-compliant identification or acceptable alternatives at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights
- Federal Facility Access: REAL ID-compliant IDs required to enter federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants
- Phased Enforcement Through 2027: Federal agencies have flexibility to implement requirements gradually, achieving full enforcement by May 5, 2027
- State Compliance Coordination: Agencies must coordinate enforcement plans with DHS and publish them publicly on official websites
- No Extensions Beyond May 7: The TSA confirmed this is the final deadline with no further postponements planned
The phased approach provides flexibility while ensuring consistent security standards across all federal agencies. However, travelers should not wait—obtaining a REAL ID-compliant card now prevents potential travel disruptions.
Who Is Affected by the New REAL ID Requirements
The REAL ID enforcement impacts virtually all U.S. residents who fly domestically or visit federal facilities. Here's how different groups are affected:
For Domestic Air Travelers
Every traveler 18 years or older needs a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification at airport security checkpoints. Children under 18 do not need to present identification when traveling with a companion within the United States.
For Federal Employees and Contractors
Anyone who regularly accesses federal buildings or military installations must update their identification before May 7, 2025. Standard state-issued IDs without the REAL ID star marking will no longer grant access to federal facilities, potentially disrupting work schedules and security clearances.
For Non-Drivers and Seniors
Individuals who don't have a driver's license can obtain a REAL ID-compliant state identification card from their local DMV. Alternatively, valid U.S. passports, passport cards, military IDs, and other federally approved documents serve as acceptable alternatives without requiring REAL ID compliance.
How to Get a REAL ID-Compliant Card - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID requires visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with specific documentation. Follow these steps:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of identity (birth certificate or valid passport), proof of Social Security number (SSN card or W-2), and two proofs of residency (utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements)
- Check Your State's Requirements: Visit your state DMV website as requirements may vary slightly—some states accept digital documents while others require original copies
- Schedule a DMV Appointment: Many states offer online appointment scheduling to reduce wait times—walk-ins may face delays of several hours
- Complete the Application: Fill out your state's REAL ID application form, available online or at the DMV, ensuring all information matches your supporting documents exactly
- Have Your Photo Taken: DMV staff will take a compliant photo meeting federal standards for background, lighting, and facial expression—similar to passport photo requirements
- Pay the Fee and Receive Your Card: REAL ID fees vary by state ($20-$50 typically) and your new card arrives by mail within 2-4 weeks with a gold star marking in the upper right corner
Important Dates and Timeline for REAL ID Compliance
Mark these critical dates to ensure you're prepared for the upcoming enforcement:
- January 13, 2025: TSA published final rule confirming enforcement begins without further extensions or delays
- May 7, 2025: Official REAL ID enforcement begins—non-compliant IDs no longer accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights
- May 7, 2025 - May 5, 2027: Phased enforcement period where federal agencies implement requirements gradually with public coordination plans
- May 5, 2027: Full enforcement deadline—all federal agencies must achieve 100% REAL ID compliance with no exceptions
- Ongoing Through 2025: States continue issuing REAL ID-compliant cards as residents renew or replace existing licenses and identification cards
Acceptable Alternative IDs to REAL ID
If you don't have a REAL ID-compliant card by May 7, 2025, these alternatives are accepted by TSA and federal agencies:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card: Valid passports remain the gold standard for federal identification and work for both domestic and international travel
- Enhanced Driver's Licenses: Issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont—these meet federal requirements without the REAL ID star
- Military ID Cards: Active-duty military, retirees, and dependents can use DoD-issued identification cards for all federal purposes
- Trusted Traveler Cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST program cards are accepted at TSA checkpoints and federal facilities
- Permanent Resident Cards: Green card holders can use their permanent resident cards (Form I-551) for domestic air travel and federal access
Frequently Asked Questions About REAL ID Requirements
What If My State ID Doesn't Have a Gold Star Yet?
A state-issued ID without the gold star marking is not REAL ID-compliant and won't be accepted at TSA checkpoints after May 7, 2025. You must visit your DMV to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant card or use an acceptable alternative like a valid U.S. passport for domestic flights.
Can I Still Fly Domestically Without a REAL ID?
Yes, you can fly domestically without a REAL ID if you present an acceptable alternative identification such as a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or enhanced driver's license from participating states. However, standard state IDs without REAL ID compliance will not be accepted after May 7, 2025.
Do I Need a REAL ID for International Travel?
No, REAL ID is not required for international travel—you must use a valid passport for all international flights. However, if you're flying domestically to reach an international departure point (like flying from your home city to New York before an international flight), you'll need REAL ID or an acceptable alternative for the domestic leg.
What Photo Requirements Apply to REAL ID Cards?
REAL ID photo requirements follow federal standards similar to passport photos: neutral facial expression, both eyes open and visible, plain light-colored background, no shadows on face, and current appearance within the last 6 months. The DMV takes your photo on-site, ensuring it meets all federal specifications automatically.
What You Need to Know Before the May 7 Deadline
The REAL ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025, represents the final deadline after nearly 20 years of implementation. With only 61% of current IDs meeting compliance standards, millions of Americans need to take action before the deadline to avoid travel disruptions and denied access to federal facilities.
Don't wait until the last minute—DMV appointment availability may become limited as the deadline approaches. Whether you choose to obtain a REAL ID-compliant card or use an acceptable alternative like a passport, ensure your identification meets federal standards well before your next domestic flight. Additionally, ensure your passport photo meets requirements for any international documentation needs, as photo compliance remains critical across all identity documents.