Planning for your next domestic trip? Time to get your Real ID.
After being delayed nearly 20 years, the Real ID or other TSA-approved identification will be required for boarding domestic planes. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with the Real ID.
The Real ID will be required for all domestic flights beginning May 7, 2025. The long-anticipated regulation mandates that adult passengers 18 years and older show a Real ID or other TSA-compliant form of identification in order to board. Non-compliant U.S. driver’s licenses will not be accepted as a sole form of identification.
The regulation has been delayed since its inception in 2005 and was further pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Real ID aims to increase security in U.S. air travel and prevent improper use of government-issued identification.
According to tsa.gov, “Passengers who do not yet have their REAL ID or another TSA acceptable form of ID can expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of not being allowed into the security checkpoint. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers.”
If you don’t have a Real ID, you can still board domestic flights with one of the following TSA-approved forms of identification:
● A valid U.S. Passport
● U.S. Passport card
● DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
● Permanent resident card
● Veteran Health Identification Card
● U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
● U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card
(I-766)
● An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian
Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
● Other acceptable documents.
The Real ID can be obtained through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While requirements vary slightly depending on your U.S. state or territory, most Real ID’s are issued by the DMV after an application that includes showing proof of Identity, Social Security Number, and state residency. The Real ID will appear similar to your U.S. drivers licence, with the addition of a star or gold icon, as an indicator it is compliant. Visit www.dhs.gov/real-id and select your state or U.S. territory for details.
Many states will mail you your Real ID. We recommend that you allow for at least fifteen business days for your Real ID to arrive by mail before your next domestic trip, though some states may take longer to process your application.
Real ID cards are not required for international air travel. If you’re flying internationally, always have your passport.
