Enforcement of the federal REAL ID law starts May 7, nearly 20 years after its passage. That means travelers will need an identification card that complies with the REAL ID law in order to board a domestic flight and enter certain federal facilities.
What Is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a federally compliant driver’s license or identification card that meets Department of Homeland Security (DHS) security standards. These standards were established after 9/11 to increase national safety.
Starting from May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or TSA-accepted ID documents to:
- Board domestic flights
- Enter federal buildings
- Access military bases
You can recognize a REAL ID by the gold or black star in the upper-right corner of your state-issued ID.
No REAL ID Yet? Here’s What You Can Still Use
If you haven’t obtained a REAL ID, don’t panic. Several documents are still valid for travel and access to federal facilities. Below are the approved alternatives to REAL ID:
✅ Accepted TSA Identification Alternatives
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
Best alternative to REAL ID for domestic flights and federal access - Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Accepted for TSA and immigration checks - DHS Trusted Traveler Programs Cards
(e.g., Global Entry, SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST) - Department of Defense (DoD) ID
For military personnel and government contractors - State-Issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
Accepted in states like Washington, New York, and Michigan - Foreign Passport with Valid U.S. Visa
- Tribal Photo ID Cards issued by federally recognized tribes
You can see the full list of accepted IDs on the TSA website.
REAL ID Deadline: May 7, 2025
After this date, if you try to board a flight with a standard driver’s license, and it’s not REAL ID compliant, you won’t be allowed through TSA checkpoints unless you have one of the approved IDs listed above.
How to Apply for a REAL ID
Getting a REAL ID is easy, but requires an in-person visit to your state DMV with original documents. Here’s what you typically need:
- One proof of identity (e.g., valid passport, birth certificate)
- One proof of Social Security Number
- Two proofs of residency (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement)
Check your state DMV website for a specific document checklist before your appointment.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
The closer we get to the REAL ID enforcement date, the longer the lines at DMVs will get. Delaying your application could lead to last-minute stress or denied travel.
If you already have a valid passport, you can still fly — but if not, it’s safer to apply for a REAL ID now and avoid future restrictions.