The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is implementing REAL ID requirements to enhance security standards for domestic air travel across the United States. If you’re planning to fly within the U.S., understanding when you’ll need a REAL ID is crucial. While the original enforcement date has been extended, it’s important to be prepared for the upcoming deadline.
Currently, adults 18 years of age and older are required to show a valid government-issued photo ID at airport security checkpoints to fly domestically. However, the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. This act mandates that federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as proof of identity if they meet these REAL ID standards.
So, when will a REAL ID be required to fly domestically? The enforcement date is May 7, 2025. Starting on this date, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, to fly within the United States. Standard state-issued driver’s licenses that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted at airport security checkpoints for domestic air travel.
To streamline the process for individuals applying for a REAL ID, DHS has been exploring and implementing measures to make it more efficient. In a move to assist states and residents, DHS issued a request for information in 2019 to explore technologies that could aid in the digital submission of documents required for REAL ID applications. Following a review of proposals, DHS announced in February 2020 that states are permitted to allow the electronic pre-submission of required documents.
This means that states can now enable applicants to submit copies of identity and lawful status documents electronically before visiting the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person. The physical presentation of these same documents is still required for authentication and verification by DMV personnel during an in-person visit. This electronic pre-submission process offers several benefits, as highlighted by states during the DHS request for information process. It helps ensure applicants have the correct documentation and allows states to retain information electronically beforehand. This advance information capture reduces time-consuming activities like physical scanning and document retention during the DMV visit, potentially decreasing applicant wait times and improving overall customer satisfaction. DHS recommends that states consider implementing this electronic pre-submission option to enhance the REAL ID application experience.
While DHS continues to evaluate further process improvements and works with relevant offices and Congress as needed, the key takeaway for travelers is to be aware of the May 7, 2025, REAL ID enforcement date. Ensure you have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification well before this deadline to avoid any disruptions to your domestic travel plans. Check with your state DMV for specific information on how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card.
