REAL ID Enforcement Begins May 7: What Travelers Need to Know

By Devin Breitenberg

Starting Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the U.S. federal government will enforce the REAL ID Act, requiring travelers aged 18 and over to present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

What Is a REAL ID?

The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission's recommendations, sets federal standards for the issuance of state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. A REAL ID-compliant card is typically marked with a star in the upper-right corner.

Acceptable Alternative Forms of Identification

If you do not have a REAL ID, other forms of identification accepted at TSA checkpoints include:

U.S. passport or passport card

DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)

U.S. military ID

Permanent resident card

Enhanced driver's license (available in some states)

How to Obtain a REAL ID

To acquire a REAL ID, you must visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person and provide:

Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)

Proof of Social Security number

Two documents proving state residency (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements)

Some states offer online pre-application processes to expedite the in-person visit.

Potential Travel Disruptions

Travelers without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative may face additional screening, delays, or be denied boarding on domestic flights. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) advises arriving at the airport at least three hours early if you lack compliant identification.

State Compliance Rates

Compliance with REAL ID requirements varies by state. As of April 2025, some states report high compliance rates, while others, like New Jersey, have lower rates, prompting initiatives to increase adoption.

Special Considerations

Individuals with name changes due to marriage or divorce may encounter additional hurdles when obtaining a REAL ID, as original or certified documents reflecting the name change are required. This has led to longer wait times and multiple visits to various agencies for some applicants.

With the May 7 enforcement date imminent, travelers are urged to verify their identification documents and ensure compliance with the REAL ID requirements to avoid disruptions in travel plans.

Devin Breitenberg is a legal consultant and senior counsel at Devin Law LLC and legal contributor  for Veritas Expositae.  You can reach her at devin.breitenberg@veritasexpositae.com