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Upcoming Real ID Requirement for U.S. Air Travelers

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a key deadline regarding the Real ID regulation that will be essential for travelers navigating airport security across the United States.

Starting on May 7, 2025, individuals must present a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets Real ID standards to access airport security checkpoints in the U.S. Travelers who do not possess a Real ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative will be denied entry at TSA checkpoints.

Real ID-compliant identification is being provided by all 50 states, along with Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

While the design of Real ID cards may differ slightly among states, they typically include a star or a star cutout located in the upper corner of the card. It’s important to note that IDs marked with phrases like “federal limits apply” or “not for federal identification” do not qualify as Real ID-compliant.

Enacted by Congress nearly twenty years ago, the Real ID Act has experienced a lengthy rollout across states due to varying local regulations. Since 2020, the implementation of the requirement for Real ID identification at domestic airport security checkpoints has faced several delays, initially prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic and further postponements for various reasons.

While the upcoming deadline remains set, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has adopted a gradual transition approach, with complete enforcement slated to begin on May 5, 2027.

“Verifying identity is essential for security,” stated David Pekoske, the TSA administrator, in a press release. He urged those relying on a driver’s license or state-issued identification card for access to federal facilities or boarding commercial flights to confirm that their credentials comply with Real ID standards. The TSA is focused on collaborating with the public, licensing agencies, and state authorities to ensure a seamless implementation of Real ID enforcement starting on May 7, 2025.

In the meantime, travelers may still utilize alternative forms of identification for air travel, including a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a trusted traveler card from the Department of Homeland Security (such as Global Entry, Nexus, Sentri, or Fast), a permanent resident card, an acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation or Indian tribe, an HSPD-12 PIV card, or a passport from a foreign government.

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