The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards for certain purposes, such as accessing Federal facilities, nuclear power plants, and boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft. Enforcement for air travel was initially scheduled to begin in 2008, but has been delayed several times. The current enforcement date for REAL ID for air travel is May 7, 2025.
To fly domestically within the United States, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or another acceptable form of identification (such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID) starting May 7, 2025. This deadline applies to all travelers 18 years of age and older.
In an effort to streamline the application process for REAL ID-compliant documents, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has authorized states to accept electronically submitted copies of source documents. This allows applicants to pre-submit necessary documents, such as proof of identity and lawful status, through a secure electronic process before their in-person visit to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
This pre-submission process helps ensure applicants have the correct documentation and allows states to electronically retain the information prior to the in-person visit. By eliminating the need for physical scanning and retention of documents during the DMV visit, this process can significantly reduce wait times and improve customer satisfaction. DHS continues to evaluate other technological proposals to further improve the REAL ID application process. While the electronic pre-submission option is available, applicants must still physically present their original documents at the DMV for authentication and verification.
