The REAL ID deadline is coming up: May 7, 2025. Do you have yours?
The REAL ID act was passed in 2005, which set minimum security standards for identifications like drivers licenses. According to the Department of Homeland Security, this means that a REAL ID is necessary for domestic flights, entering certain government buildings, and nuclear power plants.
Since most states and territories are in compliance with the REAL ID move, you may already have one. If you do, you’ll have a star in the upper right hand corner of your driver’s license. According to Homeland Security, if you have “an enhanced driver’s license” (which are used in five states), this will be an acceptable alternative to the REAL ID. An enhanced driver’s license will have the word “enhanced” at the top. If you don’t have a REAL ID or an enhanced driver’s license, you will have to get one by May 7th or possibly have issues with domestic flights- including delays, additional screening, or inability to get on your flight. If you are under the age of 18, the Homeland Security website, says you do not have to present this ID if you are traveling with a companion with acceptable ID.
REAL ID is useful for domestic travel. Any international travel or border crossings will still require a passport, so having an up to date passport will still be helpful.
You will have to make an appointment with your local DMV to get your new ID. Luckily, you can fill out some of the required forms online before you get there to save time. For your appointment: You’ll want to gather documents that prove your identity like a birth certificate or a passport. You’ll also want to have your social security card handy, and you’ll need 2 proofs of address like a utility bill or a bank statement. You should make sure all names match on all your documents- with no abbreviations or nicknames.
If years of domestic and international travel (and time spent as a travel agent) have taught me anything, it’s that it’s never a bad idea to ensure your travel documents are acceptable and up to date. When planning your next vacation, it’s a good idea to check out TSA.gov and see which travel documents are required.
Happy traveling!
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