Reminder: REAL ID Enforcement is Coming Soon!
While it’s been in the works for a long time, REAL ID standards have not yet been enforced. However, this is changing soon and will affect your domestic travels. . .
Video & display photo courtesy of the Department of Homeland Security
The legislation involved in the REAL ID changes may have been passed back in 2005 (yes, as in twenty years ago), but it’s been quite the process getting to the point that it can be enforced. That’s all about to change, though! A nationwide REAL ID enforcement will begin on May 7, 2025, so if you do not have a REAL ID yet, it’s time to get one.
What is a REAL ID?
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” It established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and prohibits certain federal agencies—including the TSA—from accepting licenses and ID cards from states that don’t meet these standards.
All states, the District of Columbia, and five US territories will be issuing REAL ID cards.
REAL ID Enforcement
After May 7, 2025, federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, may only accept state-issued REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards as identification for purposes of accessing federal facilities, including TSA airport security checkpoints. REAL ID cards are marked with a REAL ID compliant star.
An aside: Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. Most EDLs do not contain star markings, and this is acceptable.
REAL ID Alternatives
If you do not have a REAL ID at the time of travel, you will need to present a valid US passport or other acceptable form of identification, even for a domestic flight.
As always, you will need a valid US passport for any international travel. REAL ID does not replace a US passport.
How to Obtain a REAL ID
To learn how to obtain your REAL ID, visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find what documentation you will need. Requirements may vary by state, so it’s best to check locally. You can also find your state’s individual requirements via the Department of Homeland Security. Just scroll to the green map and select your state.
Many other questions about obtaining a REAL ID (and general information on the new requirements) can also be found on the Department of Homeland Security’s frequently asked questions page.
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