REAL ID Deadline Approaches: What You Need to Know
Posted By RichC on April 15, 2025
Although this was mentioned in 2019 and 2020, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will begin enforcing the REAL ID Act on May 7, 2025. After this date, standard state-issued driver’s licenses will no longer be accepted as valid identification for boarding domestic flights or accessing certain federal facilities, such as military bases (graphic below from AARP post).
What Is REAL ID?
Enacted in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the REAL ID Act establishes enhanced security standards for state-issued identification. The new ID format—often marked with a gold or black star in the top right corner—is also called a “Star Card” and includes a machine-readable zone similar to that of a passport.
To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must visit their state’s motor vehicle department with documents proving:
- Legal name and date of birth (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
- Social Security number (e.g., SS card or W-2)
- Two proofs of residency
- Legal name change documentation, if applicable (e.g., marriage certificate)
While the REAL ID also may double as a driver’s license, your current license remains valid for driving purposes. Some states, like New Jersey, still issue non-compliant licenses that are not valid for federal identification purposes.
Alternative Forms of ID for Travel
If you don’t plan to get a REAL ID, you’ll still be able to fly domestically using one of the following:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Military ID
- Global Entry or other Trusted Traveler Program cards
- Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (available in MI, MN, NY, VT, and WA)
- REAL ID-compliant mobile driver’s licenses
Important: A REAL ID is not valid for international travel or for proving citizenship. For example, it won’t be sufficient for a closed-loop cruise (starting and ending at the same U.S. port). In such cases, a passport or EDL is still required.
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