If you’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about the upcoming REAL ID changes, you’re not alone. After multiple extensions, the Department of Homeland Security has announced that beginning May 7, 2025, standard state-issued driver’s licenses will no longer be sufficient for boarding domestic flights within the United States. The good news is that there’s still time to get prepared.
What Is REAL ID?
REAL ID stems from federal legislation passed in 2005 that sets stricter security standards for identification. The goal is to ensure that IDs issued by states meet enhanced security requirements, making it tougher for counterfeit licenses to slip through. A REAL ID-compliant license features a star or other distinctive marking, usually located in the upper corner.
What Happens After May 7, 2025?
Once the deadline arrives, travelers will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license (or an alternate form of federally accepted identification, such as a passport, or certain trusted traveler cards) to pass through TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. If you try to board a plane with a non-compliant license after this date, you may be turned away at security—even if you have a valid ticket. Visit https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification for a full list of acceptable identification options for airport checkpoints.
Why It Matters to You
Imagine arriving at the airport, excited for a long-awaited vacation or important business trip, only to find out that your standard driver’s license doesn’t meet TSA requirements. Avoid the panic by taking a few minutes to check your license now. If you aren’t sure whether you have a REAL ID-compliant license, look for the star or special marking. You can also visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to confirm the status of your license or find specific instructions on upgrading. Visit the Department of Homeland Security page for full details about the REAL ID here: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
Pro Tip
Passports Still Work: If you already have a valid passport, you can continue to use it in lieu of a REAL ID for domestic flights.
