Are you up to speed on REAL ID? This relatively new form of government-issued ID comes with extra security features to guarantee the holder’s identity. And while signing up for REAL ID is currently optional, it’ll soon be a requirement for anyone planning to board a domestic flight in the United States. If you’re a frequent flyer and don’t have your REAL ID yet, take a closer look at what REAL ID is, and why and when you’ll need it to travel.
What Is REAL ID?
In 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act, establishing new security standards for any government-issued ID used to board an aircraft. While it is currently permitted to use a standard driver’s license to get onto a domestic flight, that will soon no longer be the case — you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification instead.
A REAL ID is identifiable by a star or flag symbol (or both), along with the label “Enhanced.” This type of identification contains security features that make each document more difficult to counterfeit, such as unique barcodes. This ensures that the person holding the REAL ID is exactly who they say they are instead of someone using a false identity. REAL ID will also soon be required to enter certain federal facilities. That said, it’s important to note that you’ll still need a valid passport for international travel.
Some states, including New York, also offer Enhanced ID, which is even more secure than REAL ID. As an added benefit, Enhanced IDs allow people to cross over the U.S. border into Canada or Mexico without needing to show a passport.
When Is the Real ID Deadline?
Originally, the REAL ID rules were set to take effect as far back as 2008, but repeated delays in implementation have pushed the deadline back several times. Currently, these regulations are set to go into effect on May 7, 2025. However, the Transportation Security Administration announced in September 2024 a proposal for a phased-in approach, rather than full enforcement on that date as was originally planned.
Under the new proposal, agencies would have two years (until May 2027) to fully comply with the new REAL ID regulations. Travelers can continue to monitor the Department of Homeland Security website for a live countdown until these rules take effect and to see if the deadline gets pushed back any further.
Are There Any Exceptions?
While it’s recommended that all Americans acquire a REAL ID-compliant form of identification if they haven’t done so already, there are a few exceptions when it comes to air travel. First, any airline passenger under 18 years of age won’t need to provide a REAL ID, as long as they’re traveling with an adult companion. You can also use certain documents instead of a REAL ID, such as a passport or Global Entry card, to board a flight.
How To Apply for REAL ID
The good news is that it’s simple to upgrade your existing driver’s license to be REAL ID-compatible. You’ll need to head to your local Department of Motor Vehicles with the required documents to verify who you are and where you live. These can include your Social Security Card, your current driver’s license, a valid passport, or a birth certificate. You should also fill out an application form before heading to the DMV that you can present when you arrive. Lastly, be aware that there’s a small fee as part of the application process. To learn more about what documents you’ll need to apply, consult your state’s DMV website or the DHS website for more information.
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