After nearly 20 years of delays (count ’em), we’re officially less than 1 month out from TSA enforcing the long-awaited REAL ID deadline on May 7, 2025. As they’ve been telling us since 2005, the REAL ID will be a crucial form of identification for Americans boarding domestic flights.
A recent Transportation Security Administration (TSA) press release tells us that starting on May 7, 2025, every traveler over 18 will need to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, or they “can expect delays when they arrive at the TSA security checkpoint.”
But, according to a “final rule” from the Federal Register, TSA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will allow for some “flexibility” when enforcing this deadline. That is, public agencies will have the ability to implement enforcement in phases depending on “security, operational feasibility, and public impact.” The ultimate goal is full REAL ID enforcement by May 5, 2027.
So, does this mean that you don’t actually need a REAL ID yet? Well, not exactly. The official rule is that you need to present one of the following forms of identification when boarding a domestic flight:
- REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver’s license
- REAL ID-compliant state-issued identification card
- Another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport or permanent resident card
If you do not present one of these credentials, TSA warns that travelers “can expect delays” depending on how many other travelers do not have a REAL ID-compliant credential.
For example, if you have a driver’s license that is not REAL ID-compliant, you should be ready to present another form of ID that works, like a passport.
What is a REAL ID and how can you get one?
A REAL ID is a U.S. state driver’s license or ID card that meets the latest federal security standards. If a driver’s license is REAL ID-compliant, it’ll have a star symbol in the top right corner. Here in California, the star appears as a cutout inside the shape of a gold grizzly bear.
To apply for a REAL ID in California, you need to go to the DMV and provide proof of identity, Social Security, and residency. Read our main article about REAL ID to see more of our questions answered.
Why has the REAL ID deadline been delayed for so long?
The REAL ID Act was first enacted on May 11, 2005, after the 9/11 Commission recommended that the Federal Government establish minimum security standards for ID issuance. The act was initially set to take effect on May 11, 2008, but it was extended numerous times due to state resistance, technical challenges, and operational issues.
The deadline was eventually extended all the way into 2020, but with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, DMVs faced even more backlog and operational challenges.
This led to our present-day REAL ID deadline, which is set for May 7, 2025 with phased enforcement. But, as we mentioned, the official full enforcement deadline is May 5, 2027.