READ ID Compliance

The REAL IS enforcement deadline is May 7, 2025. If you ID isn't compliant and you don't have other acceptable forms of ID, you won't be able to fly domestically.

Take a look at your driver’s license. Is there a star in the top right corner? If not and you plan to travel after May 7, 2025 (for work or for pleasure), you need to update your ID or have a passport, even when traveling domestically.

WHAT DOES THE STAR MEAN

In 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act to “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for issuing and producing licenses. It also prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the minimum federal standards.

The REAL ID enforcement date is May 7, 2025 (extended from May 3, 2023). On this date, every air traveler 18 years of age or older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.

CHECK FOR THE STAR

REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card.
 
Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website (linked below) to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID. States may impose additional requirements, so check with your state’s licensing agency prior to visiting them in person.

NOTE: Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota and New York issue REAL ID and state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses, both of which are acceptable. Washington state issues enhanced driver’s licenses only.

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

For more information and easy access to your state’s licensing authority, click here.

To learn more about flying with a REAL ID, visit www.tsa.gov/real-id. It’s also a good idea to check with your state driver’s license agency to verify that your state-issued ID is compliant.