What is a REAL ID and why do you need one by May 7?
Let’s get straight to the point—if you plan to fly within the U.S. and you do not have a REAL ID or another approved ID like a passport, you may not be able to board your flight after May 7, 2025. This date marks the long-delayed enforcement of the REAL ID Act, a federal law passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to improve identification security.
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal security standards. You will need it to board federally regulated commercial flights and access certain federal facilities, like military bases and government buildings. Your regular old license might still work for driving, but it will not get you through TSA unless it is REAL ID-compliant.
How to know if your current ID is REAL ID-compliant
You might be wondering, “Do I already have a REAL ID and not even know it?” Good question—and here is how to check. A REAL ID-compliant license will have a star symbol in the upper portion of the card. In some states, like California, the star appears inside a golden bear. Other states might have their own version, but that star is your green light.
If you do not see a star or are not sure, the safest move is to visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or give them a quick call. They can walk you through what you need and how to upgrade your ID if necessary.
What happens if you do not have a REAL ID by May 7?
Here’s the reality: showing up at the airport without a REAL ID or another approved form of ID (like a passport) could land you in a serious travel mess. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), passengers without acceptable ID may face:
- Delays
- Additional screening
- Or worst-case scenario—being turned away at the security checkpoint
That’s a lot of stress to deal with before a flight. And with summer vacations and holiday travel season around the corner, you definitely do not want to be caught off guard.
Can I still fly with a passport instead?
Yes, absolutely. If you have a valid U.S. passport, you can continue to use that for domestic travel even after the REAL ID deadline. A passport meets federal security standards and is accepted at TSA checkpoints nationwide. It is also your go-to document for international travel, so if you have one and do not plan on updating your driver’s license anytime soon, you are in the clear.
The full list of accepted IDs is available on the TSA’s website, but a passport is the most straightforward alternative.
How to get a REAL ID before the deadline
The process of getting your REAL ID is not difficult, but it does require a little prep work. You will need to visit your local DMV in person and bring the required documents, which usually include:
- Proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport)
- Social Security number (or a document showing it)
- Two proofs of address (like utility bills or a lease)
Each state might have slightly different requirements, so it is a smart move to check your state DMV website first. And do not wait until the last minute—appointments can fill up fast as the deadline approaches.
Why has this taken so long?
You are not alone if you feel like you have been hearing about this deadline for years. The REAL ID Act was passed back in 2005, but the actual enforcement has been delayed multiple times—mainly due to states needing time to update systems and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. But now, DHS and TSA say May 7, 2025, is the real deal.
As a TSA spokesperson told CNN, “We are committed to continue engaging with the public, licensing jurisdictions and states to facilitate a smooth transition to REAL ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025.”
