Brace yourselves for May 7, 2025, as domestic air travel within the United States will never be the same if you’re not Real ID ready.
At a Glance
- Real ID compliance deadline is May 7, 2025.
- REAL ID necessary for domestic flights and accessing certain federal facilities.
- Mobile Driver’s Licenses accepted by TSA until May 6, 2025.
- Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and passports serve as REAL ID alternatives.
- Interactive tools and DMVs provide REAL ID readiness checks.
The Countdown to Compliance
The Real ID Act, enacted in 2005, will fully take effect on May 7, 2025. This means a marked shift in air travel identification requirements for U.S. citizens 18 and older. A Real ID will be mandatory for boarding domestic flights and accessing several federal facilities.
Without a Real ID, you might miss your flight or face restricted access to federal facilities. The Department of Homeland Security emphasizes the importance of verifying your documentation with state licensing authorities.
Kentuckians, the clock is ticking! Beginning May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or another form of federally approved identification (like a passport) to board domestic flights and access military bases or federal facilities that require ID.
Don’t wait until the last minute—get… pic.twitter.com/8fmXWB83Db— KYTC Drive (@drivekygov) March 20, 2025
Valid Alternatives and The Real ID Indicator
For those who prefer alternatives, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) from states like Michigan, New York, and Vermont suffice, alongside U.S. passports and military IDs. These alternatives are critical to accommodate those who may face obstacles obtaining a Real ID by the deadline.
“Are you REAL ID ready? Beginning May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID for air travel within the United States. A U.S. passport meets this requirement. Passport processing times are 4–6 weeks—Apply now so you’re ready for summer travel.” – State Department
Enhanced driver’s licenses and similar forms of ID display a star or an enhancement indicator in the upper right-hand corner, serving as a verification of their validity. Proper documentation includes a legal name, birth date, social security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status.
Starting on May 7, South Carolinian travelers will be required to present a driver’s license or ID card with the Real ID gold star any time they want to board an airplane or enter a federal building or military institution. ✈️
According to data collected from the SCDMV, about 60… pic.twitter.com/Nk0c7V6uX0
— Trooper Bob (@TrooperBob_SC) April 2, 2025
Navigating the Upcoming Transition
Preparing for this transition involves visiting local DMVs, many of which operate interactive tools and offer guidance on Real ID readiness. A map is available to assist individuals in planning their path to compliance, reducing the risk of encountering roadblocks during travel.
“Are you REAL ID ready? Beginning May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID for air travel within the United States. A U.S. passport meets this requirement. Passport processing times are 4–6 weeks—Apply now so you’re ready for summer travel.” – State Department
While older ID cards may still serve limited purposes, such as driving and age verification, they fall short of the security measures now required for aviation and federal facility access. Act now to align with the new standards before May 7, 2025.
