TSA Confirms REAL ID Enforcement Starting May 7, 2025
The Transportation Security Administration published a final rule on January 13, 2025, establishing May 7, 2025, as the official enforcement date for REAL ID requirements at airports and federal facilities nationwide. Starting on this date, travelers aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver license, state-issued ID card, or acceptable alternative identification to board domestic commercial flights.
The final rule provides federal agencies with flexibility to implement enforcement in phases, allowing full compliance by May 5, 2027. This phased approach considers security risks, operational challenges, and public impact as agencies transition to the new requirements.
Key Changes Taking Effect May 7, 2025
The REAL ID enforcement brings several critical changes for American travelers and ID card holders:
- Mandatory for Domestic Air Travel: All adults boarding commercial flights within the United States must present REAL ID-compliant identification or approved alternatives starting May 7, 2025
- Federal Facility Access: REAL ID will be required to enter federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants across the country
- State-Issued Identification Only: Only driver licenses and ID cards meeting enhanced security standards established by the REAL ID Act will be accepted for official purposes
- Phased Federal Agency Implementation: Federal agencies have until May 5, 2027, to achieve full enforcement, allowing time for operational adjustments and public education
- Enhanced Security Standards: REAL ID-compliant cards include advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting and identity fraud
The enforcement date follows multiple extensions since the REAL ID Act was passed in 2005, with the final deadline now set after years of preparation by state DMVs and federal agencies. The TSA estimates that over 95% of Americans already possess compliant identification.
Who Is Affected by REAL ID Requirements
The new enforcement impacts millions of Americans across different travel and access scenarios. Understanding how these requirements apply to your specific situation is essential for compliance.
For Domestic Air Travelers
Every U.S. citizen aged 18 and older flying domestically must present a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative at TSA checkpoints. Travelers without compliant IDs will be unable to board their flights after May 7, 2025. Minors under 18 accompanying adults are generally exempt from ID requirements for domestic travel.
For Federal Employees and Contractors
Individuals requiring access to federal facilities, military installations, or restricted government buildings must obtain REAL ID-compliant identification before the enforcement date. Current employee badges may not meet the new standards, requiring updated credentials for continued access.
For International Travelers and Non-Citizens
International travelers can use valid U.S. passports, foreign passports with appropriate visas, or permanent resident cards for domestic flights. However, lawful permanent residents and visa holders should verify their state-issued IDs are REAL ID-compliant if they prefer using driver licenses over passports.
How to Get a REAL ID-Compliant License - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID requires visiting your state DMV with specific documentation, as federal law mandates in-person applications for first-time REAL ID credentials.
- Check Your Current License: Look for a star symbol (★) in the upper corner of your driver license or ID card - if present, you already have a REAL ID-compliant card
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security number documentation, two proofs of residency (utility bills, bank statements, mortgage documents), and any legal name change documents if applicable
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Visit your state DMV website to make an appointment, as many states require advance scheduling for REAL ID applications to manage volume
- Bring Original Documents Only: Photocopies and temporary documents are not accepted - all documents must be original and will be verified through federal databases
- Pay Applicable Fees: REAL ID fees vary by state, typically ranging from $20-$50, with some states offering free upgrades during regular renewal cycles
- Receive Temporary Paper License: Your permanent REAL ID card will arrive by mail within 7-15 business days, with a temporary paper license provided for immediate use
Important Dates and Compliance Timeline
Understanding key dates helps ensure you obtain compliant identification before enforcement begins and avoid travel disruptions.
- January 13, 2025: TSA published final rule confirming enforcement framework and phased implementation approach for federal agencies
- May 7, 2025: Full REAL ID enforcement begins at TSA checkpoints nationwide - non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for domestic flights
- May 7, 2025 - May 5, 2027: Federal agencies implement phased enforcement for facility access, with full compliance required by the end of this period
- May 5, 2027: Final deadline for all federal agencies to achieve 100% REAL ID enforcement across all facilities and checkpoints
- Ongoing: State DMVs continue issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses with no expiration on the program - this is a permanent security enhancement
Frequently Asked Questions
What If I Don't Have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025?
You can still fly domestically using acceptable alternatives including a valid U.S. passport, passport card, Department of Defense ID, permanent resident card, or enhanced driver license issued by participating states. Additionally, TSA accepts tribal IDs, HSPD-12 PIV cards, and several other federally approved identification forms. However, ensure your passport photo meets current biometric requirements if using this option.
How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade to REAL ID?
REAL ID fees vary by state, typically ranging from $20 to $50 for a new compliant license. Many states offer free upgrades if you're renewing your regular driver license during your normal renewal cycle. Contact your state DMV for exact pricing, as some states charge the standard license fee with no additional REAL ID surcharge.
Can I Get REAL ID Online or Must I Visit DMV in Person?
Federal law requires your first REAL ID application be completed in person at your state DMV or licensing office. This in-person requirement allows officials to verify your original documents and capture biometric data for enhanced security. However, future renewals may be available online depending on your state's policies once you have an initial REAL ID credential.
Do All Documents Need to Match My Current Name Exactly?
Yes, your legal name must match across all documents you present for REAL ID application. If your name changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring certified documentation of the name change such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or legal name change order. Women who married before 1990 may need additional documentation depending on state requirements.
Are Children Required to Have REAL ID for Domestic Flights?
Children under 18 traveling with adults on domestic flights are generally not required to present identification at TSA checkpoints. However, if a minor is traveling alone or with only one parent, airlines may require proof of relationship or notarized permission letters depending on their policies. Check with your specific airline for unaccompanied minor requirements.
What You Need to Know Before the May 7 Deadline
The REAL ID enforcement represents the most significant change to domestic travel identification requirements in two decades, affecting over 300 million Americans. With federal agencies beginning enforcement on May 7, 2025, now is the time to verify your identification meets the new security standards to avoid travel disruptions.
Check your driver license for the star symbol indicating REAL ID compliance, and if absent, schedule a DMV appointment soon as wait times may increase closer to the deadline. Ensure your passport photo meets biometric requirements if using a passport as your primary travel ID, and consider preparing required documents in advance to streamline your DMV visit. For travelers who also need visa or passport photos for international travel, services like VisaPics can help ensure your identification photos meet all current requirements across 172 countries and over 952 document types.