Travelers Must Obtain a Real ID Within the Next Month

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The Real ID deadline is May 7, 2025.The TSA will require a Real ID for access to secure areas of airports.

The countdown has begun for an important regulation that will impact all airline travelers.

Introduced as part of an enhanced security initiative, Real ID is a new benchmark established by the federal government in 2018 for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Initially scheduled for implementation much earlier, the deadline has seen several postponements to allow individuals more time to acquire this identification, especially amid the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

With fewer than ten days remaining until the May 7 deadline, it’s crucial for travelers to ensure they possess a Real ID-compliant identification card.

To obtain a Real ID, individuals should visit their state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) website for specific instructions. The process typically requires presenting proof of residency and other essential documents.

For those who cannot obtain a Real ID by the impending deadline, alternative options are available. U.S. passports, passport cards, and Global Entry cards are recognized as acceptable substitutes for a Real ID. However, the TSA has clarified that temporary state-issued IDs, including paper driver’s licenses, will not be accepted for travel.

According to a TSA spokesperson, “TSA is committed to engaging with the public, licensing jurisdictions and states to facilitate a smooth transition to Real ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025.”

Prospective applicants should be aware that acquiring a Real ID can be a complicated process, particularly depending on one’s location. For example, in California, individuals must visit a local DMV office to have their documents processed in person. Reports indicate that the least busy times to visit are between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., while peak hours in the evening can result in wait times exceeding 80 minutes.

If you are uncertain whether you already have a Real ID, the best course of action is to check your state’s DMV website to identify the distinguishing symbol, as it differs from state to state. In New York, for example, a Real ID features a white star enclosed within a black circle, whereas California’s version displays a golden bear with a star in the center. In Texas, the Real ID is represented by a golden circle adorned with a white star at the upper right corner.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com