As of May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has officially enforced the Real ID requirement for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities. This mandate, stemming from the 2005 Real ID Act, aims to bolster national security by standardizing and enhancing the security features of identification cards. Travelers aged 18 and older must now present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative to board domestic flights. Failure to do so may result in delays or denial of entry at TSA checkpoints.
What Is a Real ID?
A young driver shows her license
A Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal standards for security and authentication. These cards are distinguishable by a star or flag symbol in the upper-right corner, indicating compliance with the Real ID Act. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) issued by certain states, such as Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington, are also considered Real ID-compliant and do not require the star marking (people.com).
Why Was the Real ID Requirement Implemented?
The Real ID Act was enacted following the 9/11 terrorist attacks to establish minimum security standards for the issuance and production of state-issued identification cards. The goal was to prevent terrorism and reduce identity fraud by ensuring that identification documents are more secure and standardized across the nation (dhs.gov).
Who Needs a Real ID?
All U.S. travelers aged 18 and older are required to present a Real ID-compliant identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Children under 18 are exempt from this requirement when traveling with an adult companion who has acceptable identification (people.com).
Acceptable Alternatives to a Real ID
A Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal standards for security and authentication.
If you do not possess a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, several alternative forms of identification are accepted at TSA checkpoints:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID Cards
- Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) from specific states
- U.S. Permanent Resident Cards
- Tribal Identification Cards
It’s important to note that temporary paper driver’s licenses are not accepted. Travelers without an acceptable form of ID may undergo additional screening, which could cause delays (barrons.com).
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Real ID?
Extra screening will be taken for travelers without a Read ID-compliant identification
Travelers without a Real ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative may still be allowed to fly; however, they will likely face additional identity verification processes. This may involve providing personal information and undergoing extra screening, which could lead to significant delays. TSA recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before your flight if you do not have a Real ID or acceptable alternative (barrons.com).
How to Obtain a Real ID
To obtain a Real ID, you must apply in person at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. The application process requires presenting original or certified copies of the following documents:
- Proof of Identity (e.g., valid passport, birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security Number (e.g., Social Security card, tax documents)
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Presence (e.g., passport, permanent resident card)
- Two Proofs of State Residency (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements)
It’s advisable to check your state’s DMV website for specific requirements and to schedule an appointment, as availability may be limited due to high demand (cntraveler.com).
State-Specific Considerations
While most states issue Real ID-compliant identification cards, five states—Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington—offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) that meet federal standards without the star marking. These EDLs are acceptable for domestic air travel and federal facility access (people.com).
Tips for Travelers
Travelers at airport
- Verify Your ID: Check your driver’s license for the star or flag symbol to confirm Real ID compliance.
- Use Alternative ID: If you have a valid U.S. passport, consider using it for travel to avoid delays.
- Arrive Early: If you lack a Real ID or acceptable alternative, arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight.
- Beware of Scams: Only apply for a Real ID through your state’s official DMV website. Be cautious of unsolicited offers or requests for personal information (cbsnews.com).
Real-ID Compliance: The Final Steps to Seamless Travel
The enforcement of the Real ID requirement marks a significant step in enhancing national security and standardizing identification processes across the United States. Travelers are encouraged to ensure they possess a Real ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative before traveling. For more information and to verify your Real ID readiness, visit the official Department of Homeland Security website at dhs.gov/real-id.