The REAL ID Act
and What It Means for You
The REAL ID Act
The REAL ID Act sets security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards that are used for accessing Federal facilities or boarding commercial aircraft.
DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MAY 2025
Is Your State or Territory REAL ID Compliant?
All states are on track to begin issuing compliant licenses and IDs by the May 7, 2025, deadline. A resident from a non-compliant state, or one that’s been issued an extension, can still use their current ID, even if the card is not REAL ID compliant. It’s the state that issued the ID that must be compliant or have an extension. Still, even if you're pretty sure you're good to go, ensure you have the proper identification before you get to the airport.
REAL ID & Domestic Air Travel
Beginning May 7, 2025, every domestic air traveler 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, a state-issued enhanced driver’s license, a passport, or other TSA-acceptable forms of identification at TSA airport security checkpoints for U.S. air travel.
How to Tell if Your ID is REAL ID Compliant? Check for the Star!
Wondering if you already have an identification card that's REAL ID compliant? Before you go online to see if your state is compliant, you can take a look at your current ID to check. REAL ID-compliant cards are generally marked with a star in the card's upper portion. If you’re still not sure, contact your state driver’s license agency to see if you have a REAL ID-compliant card.
REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions
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.” States have made considerable progress in meeting this recommendation, and each state now has a more secure driver’s license than before the passage of the Act.
A license or card issued by a REAL ID-compliant state by the REAL ID security standards. The license or card must include the REAL ID-compliant star marking (see below).
By May 7, 2025, every domestic air traveler flying within the United States will require a REAL ID-compliant license or accepted form of identification.
U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
You apply for one at your local driver's licensing agency.
To obtain a REAL ID in the majority of states, you'll need to provide at least the following:
Documentation that shows your
Full Legal Name
Date of Birth
Social Security Number
Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence
Lawful Status as a US Citizen
BEFORE YOU GO IN PERSON: Check your state’s driver’s licensing website to find exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID, as some states may impose additional requirements.
Beginning May 7, 2025, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or another acceptable form of identification to board commercial aircraft.
TSA will continue to accept several forms of identity documents, including:
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards. These will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. FYI: Most EDLs do not contain the star marking.
For more information on acceptable forms of identification for boarding aircraft, please visit TSA’s website at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
You Might Also Like
Free Brochure
Order Your Free Brochure
Sign up to order your FREE travel brochure subscription and get exclusive offers only available to our subscribers
Download Brochure
View Brochure Online
Shop Deals