Lansing, MI – Starting Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the enforcement of the REAL ID requirement will officially take effect, making it necessary for travelers to carry a compliant identification card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. After years of delays, the deadline is finally here, and with it comes a series of important details that every traveler should be aware of.
What is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act was established following the 9/11 terrorist attacks as a way to standardize identification standards for air travel and federal facilities. A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card is easily identifiable by a star, which may appear black or gold and either fully filled in or outlined. Many states have been issuing these compliant cards for years, so travelers may already possess one without needing to apply for a new card.
It is important to note that some states, including Minnesota, Michigan, New York, and Vermont, offer both REAL ID-compliant cards and enhanced driver’s licenses. Enhanced licenses, which include a flag symbol instead of a star, feature a chip that facilitates border crossings by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean. However, these enhanced licenses cannot be used for air travel, unlike REAL IDs.
Can You Still Get a REAL ID?
For those who have not yet obtained a REAL ID, the good news is that they will still be issued even after the May 7 enforcement date. However, travelers looking to fly soon may find themselves in a difficult situation. In some states, such as New Jersey, Illinois, and Kentucky, there has been a surge in demand for REAL IDs, with many residents struggling to secure an appointment due to limited availability.
For those who are able to schedule an appointment, the process will require specific documentation, including proof of your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status. Those seeking a REAL ID should check with their local DMV for full requirements and estimated wait times.
Flying Without a REAL ID
While the REAL ID is now a requirement for domestic air travel, not all hope is lost for those who do not have one. Travelers who do not possess a REAL ID can still board flights by presenting another approved form of identification. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recognizes several alternate IDs, including:
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U.S. passport or passport card
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Foreign government-issued passport
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Permanent resident card
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DHS trusted traveler cards
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Department of Defense ID (including those issued to dependents)
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Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe ID cards
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
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Transportation worker identification credential
Travelers who do not have any of the above documents may still be able to board a flight by completing a TSA identity verification process, though it may cause delays at the airport.
When is a REAL ID Required?
A REAL ID is not required for all activities. Travelers can still use their regular driver’s licenses or state IDs for non-federal purposes such as voting, receiving state benefits, buying alcohol, and entering federal facilities that do not have ID requirements. However, for air travel and certain federal sites that require a valid ID, such as military bases and nuclear power plants, a REAL ID will be mandatory.
What About Marijuana?
Travelers should also be aware that while TSA may allow domestic flights for passengers without a REAL ID, they will still enforce federal laws when it comes to the possession of prohibited items, including marijuana. Although cannabis is legal in some states, it remains illegal at the federal level, and passengers should exercise caution when packing.
Final Thoughts
With the REAL ID enforcement deadline fast approaching, travelers should ensure they have the proper identification to avoid delays at the airport or other federally regulated locations. While the REAL ID is required for certain activities, alternative forms of identification are available, and travelers who do not yet have a REAL ID can still obtain one—though they should be prepared for potential wait times due to the high demand. As always, it is advisable to check with local authorities to confirm the latest information regarding ID requirements.
