REAL ID will go into effect for U.S. ID holders on May 7, 2025, and the Department of Homeland Security said there will be no more extensions or delays. Read on for everything you need to know about REAL ID – including how it works, what it means for your travel program, and how your travelers can obtain a compliant ID.
Obtaining a REAL ID requires gathering acceptable documents, such as a valid passport, birth certificate, or unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa.
The REAL ID Act: A Breakdown
The REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for the issuance and production of state ID cards (like driver’s licenses) and prohibits federal agencies from accepting any photo IDs that do not meet those standards.
In other words, this is the federal government’s way of telling states that their IDs need to become more secure and more difficult to falsify. The Act requires states to enhance the security of their driver’s licenses and ID cards to meet federal standards.
The Act, which was passed in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, also aims at eliminating airline terrorism by increasing federal requirements for U.S. residents to obtain documents that would grant them access to domestic planes. As such, it prohibits TSA and other federal agencies from accepting any ID cards that do not meet revised security standards for domestic air travel.
What is a REAL ID Card and Acceptable Identification?
A REAL ID is a driver’s license or identification card that doubles as a federally recognized form of identification. Basically, it’s just like your ordinary driver’s license, but to get one, you need to present extra documentation to your state’s DMV or driver’s license agency.
If they see a black or gold star in the upper-right corner of their ID card, that means they already have a REAL ID.
If they do not see a star OR their ID says something along the lines of “Federal Limits Apply,” that means they only have a standard ID. These are not federally approved forms of identification and, as such, will not be accepted at US airports starting May 7th, 2025.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for a REAL ID, you must provide acceptable identification documents, including the following documents: a valid passport, birth certificate, or unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. You will also need to provide proof of your social security number, such as a social security card or pay stub, and two proofs of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a green card or certified copy of your court order. It is essential to check with your state’s motor vehicles department to determine the specific requirements for obtaining a REAL ID.
Application Process
To apply for a REAL ID, you will need to visit your state’s motor vehicles department in person and provide the required documents. You can check with your state’s department to see if you can make an appointment or if there are any specific requirements for the application process, including applying for a temporary driver’s license if needed . Some states may offer online pre-verification, which can speed up the process. Once your documents are verified, you will be able to receive your ID. It is recommended to apply for a REAL ID as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues with domestic air travel.
Renewal and Replacement
If your REAL ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to apply for a replacement. You can do this by visiting your state’s motor vehicles department and providing the required documents, including proof of identity and residency. If your ID is expiring, you will need to renew it before the enforcement date of May 7, 2025. You can check with your state’s department to determine the specific requirements for renewal. It is essential to keep your ID up to date to ensure that you can continue to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
Getting your travelers REAL ID ready
If you haven’t already implemented a plan for getting your travelers REAL ID ready – don’t panic just yet! You still have a few months to go before this mandate goes into effect.
Luckily, a REAL ID is just a trip to the DMV away. Travelers need to get a ID by visiting their state’s DMV and providing the necessary documents, including a valid military id if applicable .
To obtain a REAL ID, travelers will have to provide the minimum required documentation showing their first and last name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of residency, and lawful status. Some states may require additional documentation, so make sure to have your employees visit their state’s DMV website for a list of all required documents before booking their appointment.
Interested in learning more about REAL IDs to understand how they can help you receive federal benefits ? Check out the Department of Homeland Security’s official website for more information on deadlines, frequently asked questions, and more.
Travelers should ensure they have an acceptable form to provide identification to avoid any issues with domestic air travel.
REAL ID in the Airport
Beginning May 7, 2025, all travelers are required to furnish a compliant form of identification in order to be able to board a flight at a US airport.
This is technically intended to be a way to improve and secure national security as REAL ID driver’s licenses are more secure.
| Situation | What Happens After 5/7/25 |
|---|---|
| Show up with a standard, non-REAL ID license | You will be turned away at the checkpoint unless you have another acceptable federal ID in hand. TSA officers cannot grant a grace period. |
| Forgot your wallet entirely | The “identity-verification interview” that TSA sometimes performs today disappears for adults; without compliant ID you will miss your flight. |
| Rely on a smartphone photo of your ID | Digital images, mobile driver’s licenses from pilot programs, and photocopies do not count—only the physical, secure credential is accepted. |
| Traveling with children | Nothing changes for passengers under 18 traveling with an adult; they still do not need ID for domestic flights. |
| Connecting from an international flight | You are already carrying a passport, so you are covered—but make sure any onward domestic-only colleagues have REAL ID. |
| Using CLEAR | CLEAR expedites the document-check, but you still must present a REAL ID-compliant credential (or passport, Global Entry card, etc.) at the pod. |
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