REAL ID Requirement Begins May 7: What You Need to Know Before the Deadline
New Travel and Federal Building Access Rules Starting May 7 for U.S. Adults
REAL ID Requirement Begins May 7: What You Need to Know Before the Deadline
Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need to comply with the long-awaited REAL ID requirements to board flights and access federal buildings. This change marks the first time that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will enforce the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 to enhance identity verification and increase the security of state-issued IDs.
Key Changes Under the REAL ID Act
Air Travel: Adults aged 18 and older will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued ID, or another acceptable form of ID, such as a U.S. passport, to board domestic flights. Non-compliant IDs will no longer be accepted for TSA screening starting May 7.
Access to Federal Facilities: To enter federal buildings, individuals will also need a REAL ID or an alternative approved ID. Non-compliant IDs will no longer grant access to such facilities.
REAL ID Compliance Requirements: In order to obtain a REAL ID, applicants must provide proof of identity, Social Security number, date of birth, and two documents proving their state residency. Each state has different processes, but all 50 states and several U.S. territories now issue REAL ID-compliant IDs.
Who Needs to Get a REAL ID?
Travelers: Any adult intending to fly domestically or access federal buildings will need to update their ID to meet the REAL ID standards.
Residents in Certain States: Some states have already required REAL ID compliance, so residents in these areas may not need to take additional steps if they already have compliant IDs.
Non-Traveling Individuals: If you do not fly or need access to federal buildings, updating your ID may not be necessary.
What Happens if You Don’t Comply?
If you attempt to board a flight with a non-compliant ID, you could face delays, additional screening, or even be denied entry at the TSA checkpoint. Likewise, without a REAL ID, you will not be permitted access to federal facilities.
Take Action Before the Deadline
The May 7 deadline is fast approaching, and it’s important to act quickly to obtain a REAL ID if you haven’t done so already. Check your state’s DMV website for specific requirements, gather the necessary documents, and plan ahead to avoid any disruptions, particularly as we head into the busy summer travel season.
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