Starting May 7, 2025, anyone traveling by air or visiting certain federal facilities must present a Real ID. There is still time to apply, but what if you don’t have one? Let’s get into the details of this critical requirement.
This document meets the standards established by the Real ID Act of 2005, a law enacted to improve security in the United States following the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Each state issues its own version of this ID card.
Understanding the Impact of REAL ID Requirements
REAL ID cards will be required throughout the United States beginning in May 2025. [image1] These IDs are more than just another form of identification; they are a significant step toward ensuring safety and security in public spaces.
If you plan to fly after May 7, 2025, there is an important update you should be aware of. All air travelers aged 18 and up must present a state-issued driver’s license that meets the REAL ID standards.
According to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) official website, travelers who do not have this document may face significant delays at security checkpoints.
The extent of these delays will be largely determined by the number of travelers who do not have the required REAL ID-compliant card. This card, or another type of TSA-accepted identification, is required to verify one’s identity at the airport.
How to Prepare for REAL ID Compliance
The TSA strongly advises everyone over the age of 18 to review their current photo identification. Ensure that they are among those accepted by the TSA.
This will ensure that you are fully prepared when the REAL ID requirements go into effect on May 7, 2025,” emphasized Sid Hanna, the organization’s federal security director.
By taking these steps now, you can avoid future surprises and travel delays. When navigating the complexities of airport security, it’s critical to understand what forms of identification are accepted by the TSA. The TSA maintains a comprehensive list of acceptable IDs that can be presented at security checkpoints for identification.
Accepted Forms of Identification by the TSA
According to the Transportation Security Administration website, here are some of the key documents you can use:
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Passport Card
- Trusted Traveler Card from the Department of Homeland Security, which includes cards like Global Entry or SENTRI
- Military IDÂ for active duty and retired personnel, including IDs issued to dependents
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential
The REAL ID: What to Look For
REAL ID cards are distinguished by a star, as indicated by the DMV. Please note that the image provided is for educational purposes only and is not legally valid.
Having the right identification not only ensures a smoother experience at the checkpoint but also aligns with TSA’s regulations for security and verification.
