REAL ID Enforcement Begins May 7, 2025
Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin full enforcement of REAL ID requirements at airport security checkpoints nationwide. All U.S. travelers aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued identification card, or an acceptable alternative such as a passport to board domestic commercial flights. This marks the final deadline after nearly 20 years since the REAL ID Act was signed into law in 2005.
The enforcement applies to all domestic air travelers, including TSA PreCheck members, who must now carry federally compliant identification. Travelers without proper identification will face delays, additional screening, and may be denied entry through security checkpoints.
Key Changes to ID Requirements for Air Travel
The new enforcement brings several critical changes that affect millions of American travelers:
- Mandatory REAL ID Compliance: Standard state-issued driver's licenses without the star marking will no longer be accepted at TSA checkpoints
- Federal Facility Access: REAL ID is required to enter federal buildings, nuclear power plants, and military installations in addition to airports
- No More Extensions: This is the final deadline with no further postponements planned after multiple delays since 2005
- Current Adoption Rate: Approximately 81% of U.S. travelers already use a REAL ID-compliant license or approved alternative like a passport
- State Compliance: All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 5 U.S. territories are now issuing REAL ID-compliant cards
The TSA has confirmed that passengers presenting non-compliant state identification without acceptable alternatives can expect significant delays and possible denial of boarding. This enforcement applies to all commercial domestic flights within the United States.
Who Is Affected by the New Requirements
The REAL ID enforcement impacts different groups of travelers in various ways. Understanding how these changes affect you is crucial for avoiding travel disruptions.
For Adult Domestic Travelers (18 and Older)
All adults must carry a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative when flying domestically. If your current driver's license does not have a star marking in the upper right corner, you need to upgrade before May 7, 2025, or use a passport for air travel. Standard state-issued IDs without REAL ID compliance will no longer grant you access through TSA security checkpoints.
For Children and Minors Under 18
Children under 18 traveling with a parent or guardian on domestic flights do not need to provide identification. However, TSA recommends carrying some form of ID for minors for international travel and emergency situations.
For International Travelers and Green Card Holders
If you hold a U.S. passport, permanent resident card (green card), or trusted traveler card like Global Entry or NEXUS, you already have acceptable identification for domestic flights. These documents are federally compliant and serve as alternatives to REAL ID.
How to Get Your REAL ID - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID requires visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or licensing agency with specific documentation:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect one proof of identity/date of birth (valid passport or certified birth certificate), one document with your Social Security number, and two proofs of current residential address
- Check State-Specific Requirements: Visit your state DMV website at usa.gov/real-id to confirm exact documentation needed, as requirements vary by state
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Many states require appointments for REAL ID applications to reduce wait times and ensure proper documentation review
- Visit DMV in Person: REAL ID applications require in-person verification and cannot be completed online or by mail due to federal security standards
- Pay Required Fees: Most states offer free REAL ID upgrades during regular license renewal, otherwise expect a correction or replacement fee ranging from $10-$30
- Receive Your REAL ID Card: Look for the star marking in the upper right corner to confirm your new license is REAL ID-compliant
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to ensure compliance:
- January 14, 2025: TSA published final rule establishing May 7 enforcement date with no further extensions
- April 2025: TSA launched nationwide awareness campaign reminding travelers about upcoming deadline
- May 7, 2025: Full REAL ID enforcement begins at all U.S. airports and federal facilities - final deadline
- May 8, 2025 and Beyond: Non-compliant state IDs will no longer be accepted at TSA checkpoints without acceptable alternatives
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID
If you don't have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, the TSA accepts several alternative forms of identification:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card: Both are federally compliant and the most commonly used alternatives for domestic air travel
- Enhanced Driver's License (EDL): Issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont as REAL ID alternatives
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST cards are acceptable for domestic flights
- Military and Government IDs: Active duty military IDs, retired military IDs, and federal employee credentials are approved
- Permanent Resident Card: Green cards are acceptable for both domestic and international travel
These alternatives allow you to fly domestically without upgrading your driver's license to REAL ID. Many travelers who already have passports choose to use them rather than obtaining a REAL ID-compliant state license.
How to Identify a REAL ID-Compliant Card
Determining whether your current license is REAL ID-compliant is straightforward:
- Star Marking: Look for a black or gold star in the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID card
- State Variations: Some states use alternative markings - California displays a golden bear, while Massachusetts uses a simple gold star
- Card Issuance Date: Most REAL ID cards issued after 2016 include the star marking, but check with your state DMV to confirm
- Enhanced Driver's Licenses: These show a flag symbol instead of a star and are also federally compliant
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Don't Have a REAL ID on May 7, 2025?
If you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID-compliant license and no acceptable alternative, you will not be permitted through the TSA security checkpoint. The TSA will provide additional screening options, but there is no guarantee you'll be allowed to board your flight. You must present either a REAL ID card, passport, or other federally approved identification to fly domestically.
Do I Need a REAL ID If I Already Have a Passport?
No, you do not need to get a REAL ID if you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card. Passports are federally compliant and serve as acceptable alternatives for domestic flights and federal facility access. Many travelers choose to use their passport for domestic air travel instead of upgrading their driver's license.
Can I Still Use My Current Driver's License for Driving?
Yes, your current non-REAL ID driver's license remains valid for all driving purposes regardless of the May 7 deadline. The REAL ID requirement only affects boarding commercial aircraft and accessing certain federal facilities. You can continue driving with your standard state license, but you'll need a passport or other alternative to fly domestically.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a REAL ID?
Most states offer REAL ID upgrades at no additional cost if you convert during your regular license renewal period. If you need to upgrade before your renewal date, expect to pay a correction or replacement fee typically ranging from $10 to $30, depending on your state. Check your state DMV website for specific pricing information.
Will the May 7, 2025 Deadline Be Extended Again?
No, federal officials have stated this is the final deadline with no further extensions planned. The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005, and enforcement has been postponed multiple times over nearly 20 years. The Department of Homeland Security and TSA have confirmed that May 7, 2025 is the absolute final enforcement date.
What You Need to Know Before Your Next Flight
The May 7, 2025 REAL ID deadline represents a significant change for domestic air travel in the United States. With approximately 19% of travelers still using non-compliant identification, millions of Americans need to take action before the enforcement date. Whether you choose to upgrade your driver's license or use a passport alternative, ensure your identification meets federal requirements to avoid travel disruptions.
If you're planning to travel domestically after May 7, start preparing now by checking your current ID for the star marking or scheduling a DMV appointment to obtain a REAL ID. For international travelers, ensure your passport photo meets requirements using services like VisaPics to guarantee acceptance. Don't wait until the last minute - processing times at DMV offices may increase significantly as the deadline approaches, and you want to ensure your travel documents are ready well before your next flight.