Americans have less than one month to comply with new federal identification requirements that will drastically change domestic air travel and access to federal facilities starting May 7, 2025.
Quick Takes
- Starting May 7, 2025, all U.S. adults will need a REAL ID or acceptable alternative (like a passport) to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities.
- The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005 following 9/11 Commission recommendations, aims to establish uniform security standards for state-issued identification.
- REAL ID compliant cards are marked with a star, flag, or the word “Enhanced” in the upper right corner.
- To obtain a REAL ID, citizens must provide documentation of full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status.
Why REAL ID Enforcement is Finally Happening
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. After multiple extensions and delays spanning nearly two decades, the Department of Homeland Security has confirmed the final deadline of May 7, 2025. This legislation prevents federal agencies from accepting identification cards from states that do not meet these enhanced security standards, directly impacting the approximately 250 million license holders across the country who will need to ensure their identification meets federal requirements.
The implementation challenges led to numerous postponements, with the most recent delay occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic. The final deadline represents the government’s determination to fully implement these enhanced security measures, which have been in development for nearly 20 years. Travelers who fail to update their identification by the deadline will face significant disruptions to their travel plans, as standard driver’s licenses will no longer be sufficient for boarding domestic flights or entering secure federal facilities.
Real ID deadline is just one month away — here’s what travelers need to know https://t.co/p8SDeC5C3w pic.twitter.com/xUqlxq8WoX
— New York Post (@nypost) April 8, 2025
What Makes a REAL ID Different?
REAL ID compliant cards are visually distinct from standard licenses, featuring a star, flag, or the word “Enhanced” in the upper right-hand corner. These identifiers signal to federal officials and TSA agents that the ID meets the heightened security requirements. The cards themselves incorporate advanced anti-counterfeiting technology and require more rigorous verification of the holder’s identity during the application process. This includes providing documentation proving full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status in the United States.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are automatically compliant with REAL ID requirements. These special licenses serve dual purposes, not only meeting domestic air travel requirements but also enabling land and sea border crossings from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The reinforced security features of REAL IDs include machine-readable technology and standardized information layout, making identity verification more reliable and consistent nationwide.
Alternatives to REAL ID for Travel and Federal Access
For Americans who don’t wish to obtain a REAL ID, several alternatives remain valid for air travel and accessing federal facilities. U.S. passports and passport cards are universally accepted and may be preferable for frequent international travelers. Active duty military IDs, Department of Defense civilian IDs, Veterans Affairs ID cards, and federally recognized tribal photo IDs are also acceptable alternatives. These documents already meet or exceed the security standards established by the REAL ID Act, making them suitable substitutes for domestic travel purposes.
Mobile Driver’s Licenses (mDLs) will continue to be accepted by TSA until the May 7, 2025 deadline, providing a temporary digital alternative in states that offer this technology. It’s worth noting that non-compliant state IDs will still be valid for other purposes, including driving, purchasing age-restricted products, accessing non-federal government buildings, and applying for federal benefits. The Department of Homeland Security has created an interactive online tool to help citizens verify their REAL ID readiness and locate their nearest DMV office.
Preparing for the Deadline
With less than a month remaining until implementation, Americans should check their current identification for REAL ID compliance and plan accordingly. The Department of Homeland Security recommends applying well before the deadline to avoid processing delays that may occur as the date approaches. Most states require an in-person visit to the DMV with original documents or certified copies, as photocopies are typically not accepted. Processing times vary by state, with some taking several weeks to mail the new identification after application approval.
The verification process is stringent, requiring documentation that proves identity, Social Security number, and residency. For individuals who have changed their name through marriage, divorce, or other circumstances, additional documentation showing the name change history will be required. The consequences of non-compliance will be immediate—travelers without proper identification will be denied boarding for domestic flights beginning May 7, 2025.
