Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to fly within the United States. This new security measure, mandated by the REAL ID Act of 2005, is set to enhance the security and reliability of identification documents used at airports nationwide. If you’re planning to travel domestically by air, understanding the REAL ID requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth journey through airport security.
What is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 as a direct response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Its primary goal is to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. These standards are designed to prevent fraudulent identification and enhance national security by making it more difficult for individuals to evade detection using fake IDs. A REAL ID-compliant card is marked with a star symbol, typically in the upper right corner, indicating that it meets these federal security standards.
Karen Keys-Turner, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Harrisburg International Airport, emphasizes the importance of REAL ID: “REAL ID is a coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards. The improvements are intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.”
The May 7, 2025 Deadline: Are You Ready?
The enforcement date for REAL ID is fast approaching. Beginning May 7, 2025, standard state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid identification for boarding domestic flights. This means that if your current driver’s license does not have the star symbol, you will need to take action to obtain a REAL ID or use an alternative form of acceptable identification for air travel within the U.S.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll advises residents to act proactively: “The REAL ID enforcement deadline is quickly approaching. While there is no requirement that every resident obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card, we recommend that you start the opt-in process now if you will want a REAL ID-compliant product.”
Who Needs a REAL ID to Fly Domestically?
This requirement applies to all individuals 18 years and older who wish to board a commercial airplane for domestic travel within the United States. While REAL ID is primarily focused on driver’s licenses and identification cards, it’s important to understand that this mandate affects anyone who uses these documents as their primary form of identification for air travel.
If you do not plan to fly domestically or enter secure federal facilities or military bases, obtaining a REAL ID is optional. You can continue to use your standard driver’s license for other purposes, such as driving and general identification outside of these federal contexts.
How to Get a REAL ID
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, individuals generally need to visit their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in person. While specific requirements may vary slightly by state, the common documentation needed to apply for a REAL ID includes:
- Proof of Identity: A valid U.S. passport or U.S. birth certificate.
- Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card.
- Proof of Legal U.S. Residency: Documents such as a U.S. birth certificate, permanent resident card, or employment authorization document.
- Two Proofs of Current Residency: Examples include a utility bill, bank statement, or mortgage statement with your current address.
It’s important to check the specific requirements of your state’s DMV website for a complete and up-to-date list of acceptable documents and any specific application procedures. For Pennsylvania residents, more detailed information can be found at PennDOT.pa.gov/REALID.
What if You Don’t Get a REAL ID? Acceptable Alternatives
Even if you choose not to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or don’t obtain one before the deadline, you can still fly domestically. TSA will accept several other forms of identification at airport security checkpoints, including:
- Valid U.S. Passport
- Passport Card
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Military IDs
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (e.g., Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, SENTRI, NEXUS)
- And other forms of identification accepted by TSA, listed on the TSA website.
It is always advisable to check the TSA website for the most current list of acceptable forms of identification before traveling.
Don’t Wait, Get REAL ID Ready
The May 7, 2025, deadline for REAL ID enforcement is approaching rapidly. While alternative forms of ID are acceptable, obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card simplifies the airport security process for many domestic travelers. Starting the application process now ensures you will be ready for upcoming travels and avoid any potential delays or complications at the airport. Plan ahead, gather the necessary documents, and visit your local DMV to secure your REAL ID and ensure seamless domestic air travel in the years to come.
