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.
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 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.
