By Emily Long
The final (final) deadline for the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID requirement is upon us, and unlike so many instances in the two decades since the new rules were passed, it doesn’t appear that air travelers are getting another extension to obtain an identification that complies.
Countdown to May 7, 2025 REAL ID enforcement:
16Days
14Hours
03Minutes
36Seconds
The 2005 REAL ID Act aimed to standardize state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards by 2008, though the rollout was delayed until 2020, then 2023, then 2025. Starting May 7, anyone age 18 and over passing airport security or entering certain federal buildings with their license will need a REAL ID.
Many states have issued REAL IDs in recent years upon license renewal or upgrade, so if yours has a gold or black star in the corner, you are already good to go. However, if you’ve procrastinated on this change, you may still be able to fly with an alternative ID.
Alternatives to REAL ID for air travel
If you need to go through a TSA checkpoint after May 7 and don’t have a REAL ID-compliant license, you can use one of the following alternative forms of identification:
- U.S. passport
- U.S passport card
- DHS Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (available to residents in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington only)
TSA will also accept IDs like Enhanced Tribal Cards, permanent resident and border crossing cards, Department of Defense IDs (and other federal worker credentials), and foreign passports.
TSA does accept expired IDs up to a year after expiration, and you may still be allowed to clear security without a valid ID upon completion of an identity verification process.
To get a REAL ID, you’ll need to check your state’s requirements. Typically, these include proof of your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and residency status.
You’ll also need to go in person to have your photo taken and pay a fee. REAL ID is only required for clearing security at airports (and some federal buildings)—you do not need one to drive or vote.
Disclaimer
The information contained in South Florida Reporter is for general information purposes only.
The South Florida Reporter assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the contents of the Service.
In no event shall the South Florida Reporter be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other tort, arising out of or in connection with the use of the Service or the contents of the Service. The Company reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents of the Service at any time without prior notice.
The Company does not warrant that the Service is free of viruses or other harmful components
