REAL ID Now Required for Domestic Flights
The deadline has arrived. Beginning May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers age 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card—or an acceptable alternative form of ID—to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities.
If your current license doesn’t have a star in the upper corner, it likely isn’t REAL ID-compliant. Now is the time to check and act if needed.
What You’ll Need to Get a REAL ID
REAL IDs are issued at your local DMV. Be sure to bring original or certified documents—photocopies won’t be accepted. You will typically need:
- Proof of identity (e.g., valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2, or recent pay stub)
- Two documents showing proof of residency (e.g., utility bills, lease, or mortgage statements)
- Proof of lawful status (e.g., green card, visa with valid I-94, or U.S. passport)
Don’t Have a REAL ID? You Still Have Options
You can still fly domestically using a TSA-approved alternative, including:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)
- U.S. military ID
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Enhanced Driver’s License (available in certain states)
- Federally recognized tribal-issued or Enhanced Tribal Cards
- Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document), Veteran Health ID Card, and other federal IDs
Final Notes
- The REAL ID Act was originally passed in 2005, but implementation has been delayed multiple times—until now.
- Many state DMVs offer online tools to pre-upload your documents and streamline your appointment.
- There is typically no additional cost for a REAL ID beyond standard ID renewal fees.
If you already hold a valid U.S. passport, a REAL ID is no necesario for domestic flights—but may still be useful for federal facility access.
Make sure you’re ready to fly. If you haven’t upgraded to a REAL ID, take action now—and join us on May 14 to learn more about your rights and travel requirements in 2025. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end of the presentation. Even if you do not think you can make it at 12:30, register anyway because you can receive the link to watch later.
For more information, review the TSA website .
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