March 18, 2025
On May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.
Q: What is REAL ID?
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID ACT establishes minimum security standards for state-issued Driver’s Licenses (DL) and Identification (ID) cards that can be used for official federal purposes. For more information go to: Department of Homeland Security.
Q: How do you know if I have REAL ID?
To check if your ID is REAL ID-compliant, look for a gold or black star symbol. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from select states are also compliant. If unsure, you can contact your local DMV. REAL ID-compliant cards will have of one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won’t be accepted as proof of identity in order to board commercial aircraft.
Q: I don’t have a REAL ID. How do I get one?
Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required* to obtain a REAL ID. At a minimum, you must provide documentation showing:
- Full Legal Name
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number
- Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence;
- Lawful Status.
*Certain states may impose additional requirements, so check with your state’s driver’s licensing agency website, before visiting them in person, for additional guidance and assistance.
New Mexico residents visit New Mexico Real ID for more info.
Q: What happens when REAL ID enforcement begins on May 7, 2025?
Federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, may only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as identification for purposes of accessing federal facilities (including TSA airport security checkpoints) if the license or card was issued by a REAL ID-compliant state in accordance with the REAL ID security standards (meaning the license or card must include the REAL ID-compliant marking). Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. Most EDLs do not contain the star marking and this is acceptable.
Q: Do I still need a passport if I have REAL ID?
Yes, if you are traveling internationally you will still need your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.
If you have any questions about REAL ID, visit https://www.dhs.gov/real-id or contact your local DMV for assistance.