The Real ID Act, passed in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards.
As of May 7, 2025, individuals over 18 must have a Real ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to pass through airport security checkpoints for domestic flights.
Several states have low Real ID compliance rates, indicating that many people still need to obtain a Real ID.
Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL), issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington, are an acceptable alternative to Real IDs for domestic air travel and border crossings with Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Alternative forms of identification accepted by the TSA include U.S. passports, permanent resident cards, and trusted traveler cards (e.g., Global Entry).
A Real ID is a state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets federal security standards set by the Real ID Act of 2005. These IDs are marked with a star at the top.
Anyone over the age of 18 who plans to fly domestically, enter federal buildings, or access nuclear power plants will need a Real ID or an acceptable alternative. A U.S. passport is always an acceptable alternative.
Five states—Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington—issue Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL). These licenses serve as both a driver's license and proof of U.S. citizenship for re-entry into the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean via land and sea borders. EDLs are also accepted for domestic air travel.
If you do not have a Real ID, the TSA accepts several other forms of identification, including:
U.S. Passport
U.S. Passport Card
Enhanced Driver's License (EDL)
Permanent Resident Card
Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST cards
U.S. Department of Defense ID
Border Crossing Card
Check your state's DMV website for specific requirements and documentation needed to obtain a Real ID.
If you already have a valid U.S. passport, you do not need a Real ID for domestic air travel.
Consider applying for an Enhanced Driver's License if you live in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington and frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
Q: What happens if I don't have a Real ID by the deadline?
Without a Real ID or acceptable alternative, you may not be able to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.
Q: Can I use a Real ID for international travel?
No, you still need a valid passport for international travel.
Q: Where can I find out what documents I need to get a Real ID?
Check your state's DMV website.
The Real ID deadline is a crucial date for anyone planning to travel domestically or access federal facilities. Make sure to check your ID's compliance, gather necessary documents, and plan accordingly. If you don't have a Real ID, explore alternative forms of identification like a U.S. passport or Enhanced Driver's License.
Are you prepared for the Real ID deadline? What form of ID will you be using for domestic travel? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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