On May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) begins full enforcement of REAL ID airport requirements at airport security checkpoints across the United States. If you plan to fly domestically, this change will likely affect you.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about REAL ID, from how to get one to what happens if you show up at the airport without it.
Table of Contents
What is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission recommendations, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The law aims to prevent identity fraud and enhance national security.
A REAL ID-compliant license or ID card meets enhanced security requirements and can be used for:
- Boarding domestic commercial flights
- Entering federal facilities that require ID
- Accessing secure areas of federal buildings
- Entering military installations
Key Dates and Enforcement
May 7, 2025: Full Enforcement Begins
Starting May 7, 2025, TSA will only accept REAL ID-compliant identification or other approved forms of ID at security checkpoints for domestic flights.
Who is affected:
- All airline passengers 18 years and older
- TSA PreCheck® members
- Anyone flying domestically within the United States
Important: This requirement applies to domestic flights only. International travelers can continue using their passports.
How to Identify a REAL ID
REAL ID-compliant cards have a star marking (★) in the upper right corner or edge of the card. This star distinguishes it from standard licenses.
State Variations:
- Most states use a gold or black star
- Some states use a white star on a gold circle
- A few states have alternate designs that comply with federal standards
If your driver’s license or state ID doesn’t have a star, it’s not REAL ID-compliant.
REAL ID State-by-State Compliance
All States Now Issuing REAL IDs
Good news: All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 5 US territories are now REAL ID-compliant and issuing REAL ID cards.
However, the percentage of residents who have obtained REAL IDs varies dramatically:
High Compliance States (90%+ adoption)
- Georgia: 99%+
- Florida: 99%+
- Tennessee: 95%+
- Mississippi: 92%+
- Arkansas: 90%+
Medium Compliance States (50-75% adoption)
- North Carolina: 52%
- Texas: 68%
- California: 71%
- Pennsylvania: 65%
- Ohio: 58%
Low Compliance States (under 50% adoption)
- Alabama: 33%
- Illinois: 48%
- New Jersey: 45%
- Nevada: 42%
- Oregon: 47%
What this means: If you live in a low-compliance state, expect longer wait times at your DMV in the months leading up to May 7, 2025.
How to Get Your REAL ID
Step 1: Check If You Already Have One
Look at your current driver’s license or state ID. If you see a star (★) in the upper corner, you’re already compliant!
Many states automatically issued REAL IDs when residents renewed their licenses after 2018-2020. You may not need to do anything.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To obtain a REAL ID, you must provide original or certified copies of the following:
1. Proof of Identity (one document)
- Valid U.S. passport
- Certified birth certificate issued by a state, county, or municipality
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Valid, unexpired foreign passport with I-551 stamp or temporary I-551 printed on a visa
2. Proof of Social Security Number (one document)
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- Pay stub with full SSN (not last 4 digits)
- 1099 form
- Medicare or Medicaid card (if it shows full SSN)
3. Proof of State Residency (two documents)
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, cable)
- Bank statement
- Mortgage or lease agreement
- Insurance policy or bill
- Property tax receipt
- Voter registration card
- Employment pay stub
- School records
Important: Documents must show your current address. P.O. boxes are generally not accepted for residency proof.
4. If Your Name Has Changed
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order for legal name change
Pro tip: Bring extra documents in case one isn’t accepted. Some states have specific requirements.
Step 3: Visit Your State DMV
You CANNOT apply for REAL ID online or by mail in most states. You must visit a DMV office in person.
Before You Go:
1. Check your state’s DMV website for specific requirements (they vary slightly)
2. Make an appointment (highly recommended to avoid long waits)
3. Bring originals – photocopies are not accepted
4. Prepare to pay the fee (typically $20-$35)
Processing Time:
- In-person wait: 1-3 hours (without appointment)
- Card arrival: 7-21 business days by mail
- Temporary paper ID: Issued immediately for driving purposes
Step 4: Receive Your REAL ID
Your new REAL ID will be mailed to your address within 2-3 weeks. Most states issue a temporary paper license you can use for driving while waiting.
REAL ID Costs by State
Fees vary significantly by state:
| State | REAL ID Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | $39 | Includes renewal |
| Texas | $25 | Standard DL fee |
| Florida | $25-$48 | Varies by license type |
| New York | $64.50 | 8-year license |
| Pennsylvania | $31.50 | Includes renewal |
| Illinois | $30 | Additional $5 for renewal |
| Ohio | $25.75 | Standard fee |
| Georgia | $32 | 8-year license |
| North Carolina | $16 | 8-year license |
| Michigan | $18 | Plus $7 for 4-year |
Good to know: Some states waive REAL ID fees if you’re already due for a license renewal.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) – An Alternative
Five states offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) as an alternative to REAL ID:
- Washington
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New York
- Vermont
Benefits of EDL:
- TSA-accepted (meets REAL ID requirements)
- Can be used for land and sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean
- Includes RFID chip for faster border processing
- No separate passport card needed for land crossings
Drawbacks:
- More expensive ($30-$50 more than REAL ID)
- Requires additional documentation (proof of citizenship)
- Longer processing time (6-8 weeks)
- Not valid for international air travel
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID
If you don’t have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you can still fly domestically using these alternatives:
U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- Most common alternative
- Valid for both domestic and international travel
- Passport cards work for domestic flights but NOT international flights
Other Federal IDs
- U.S. military ID (active duty or retired)
- Department of Defense ID
- Border Crossing Card with I-94
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Trusted Traveler Program cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry)
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Tribal IDs
- Enhanced Tribal Card (ETC)
- Native American tribal photo ID issued by a federally recognized tribe
Important: Children under 18 do not need to show ID for domestic flights when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
What Happens If You Don’t Have REAL ID?
At the Airport Security Checkpoint
If you arrive at a TSA checkpoint on or after May 7, 2025, without REAL ID or an acceptable alternative:
Phase 1: Document Verification
- TSA will ask if you have any other acceptable ID
- You’ll be directed to a secondary screening area
Phase 2: Identity Verification
- TSA may ask you questions about your identity
- You may be asked to fill out a form with personal information
- Officers will attempt to verify your identity through other means
Phase 3: Possible Outcomes
- Best case: You’re cleared after additional screening (30-60 minute delay)
- Worst case: You’re not allowed through security and miss your flight
TSA’s Official Stance:
“Passengers who do not present an acceptable form of identification will not be permitted to enter the security checkpoint.”
Recommendations
- Arrive 2+ hours early if you have concerns about your ID
- Bring multiple forms of ID as backup
- Have proof of your flight booking ready
- Don’t risk it – get your REAL ID or alternative before your trip
Read Also: US Immigration Policy Changes 2025: What You Need to Know
REAL ID vs. Passport: Which Should You Get?
Get REAL ID If:
- You only fly domestically within the US
- You already need to renew your driver’s license
- You want the most convenient option for everyday carry
- Cost is a concern ($25-40 vs. $165+ for passport)
Get a Passport If:
- You travel internationally (even occasionally)
- You want maximum flexibility
- You don’t want to visit the DMV
- You need a widely-accepted federal ID
- You’re planning international travel within 6 months
Get Both If:
- You travel frequently (domestic and international)
- You want backup ID options
- You’re replacing an expiring passport anyway
- You prefer not to carry your passport for domestic trips
Best strategy: Get your REAL ID now (it’s required for driving anyway) and apply for a passport if you plan any international travel.
Special Situations and FAQs
I’m Flying Tomorrow and Don’t Have REAL ID!
Short-term solution: Bring your valid U.S. passport to the airport instead. This is the fastest workaround.
If you don’t have a passport:
- Check if your state offers expedited REAL ID (rare)
- Apply for expedited passport service (2-3 weeks with additional fee)
- Use another acceptable federal ID if you have one
Before May 7, 2025: Your standard driver’s license still works! The deadline hasn’t hit yet.
I Lost My REAL ID – What Do I Do?
1. Report it lost/stolen to your state DMV immediately
2. Request a replacement online or in-person (usually $15-25 fee)
3. Replacement typically arrives in 7-14 days
4. Use your passport for flights while waiting
My REAL ID Expires Soon
REAL ID expiration dates are the same as regular driver’s license renewals (typically 4-8 years depending on your state).
To renew:
- Follow your state’s standard renewal process
- Many states allow online renewal if no info changes
- You may need to visit DMV in person for photo updates
I Have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
If you hold a CDL, you must get a REAL ID-compliant CDL. The process is similar:
- Visit DMV with required documents
- Pay CDL renewal fee plus REAL ID fee
- Take new photo
- Receive star-marked CDL
I’m Not a U.S. Citizen
Non-citizens can obtain REAL ID if they provide:
- Valid, unexpired foreign passport
- I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Approved immigration status document (visa, work permit, etc.)
- Proof of state residency
Permanent residents (Green Card holders) can use their Permanent Resident Card as an alternative to REAL ID.
What About REAL ID for Minors?
- Children under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights when traveling with an adult
- Parents may request REAL ID for teens who drive
- Same documentation requirements apply
- Costs vary by state ($10-25 for minors)
Timeline: When Should You Get Your REAL ID?
If the Deadline is May 7, 2025…
Ideal Timeline:
- 6+ months before (Nov 2024-Jan 2025): Gather documents, schedule DMV appointment
- 3-6 months before (Feb-April 2025): Visit DMV, apply for REAL ID
- 1-3 months before (May-Jul 2025): Last-minute rush – expect long waits!
- Less than 1 month: Consider using passport instead
Current situation (October 2025): The deadline has already passed! If you’re reading this and don’t have REAL ID yet:
- Use your passport for immediate flights
- Get REAL ID as soon as possible for future convenience
State-Specific REAL ID Information
California
Fee: $39
Validity: 5 years
Online scheduling: Yes (highly recommended)
Processing time: 3-6 weeks
Special notes: Can renew standard license to REAL ID online if eligible
Website: dmv.ca.gov/realid
Texas
Fee: $25 (standard DL fee)
Validity: 6 years
Online scheduling: Yes
Processing time: 2-3 weeks
Special notes: No separate REAL ID fee
Website: dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/real-id
Florida
Fee: $25-48 (varies by license type)
Validity: 8 years
Online scheduling: Yes
Processing time: 7-10 business days
Special notes: Fast processing compared to other states
Website: flhsmv.gov/realid
New York
Fee: $64.50 (8-year standard license)
Validity: 8 years
Online scheduling: Yes (some locations)
Processing time: 10-14 days
Special notes: Can get Enhanced License instead
Website: dmv.ny.gov/real-id
For your state’s specific information: Search “[Your State] DMV REAL ID” for official requirements.
Using Aqee to Track Your REAL ID and Travel Documents
Managing travel documents, expiration dates, and renewals can be overwhelming. Aqee helps you stay organized:
Smart Vault Storage
- Upload photos of your REAL ID (front and back)
- Store your passport and other travel IDs
- Access documents from anywhere
- Secure cloud storage
Expiration Reminders
- Get notified 6 months before REAL ID expires
- Track passport renewal deadlines
- Never miss a visa or ID renewal again
- Automatic email and app notifications
Travel Preparation Quests
- Step-by-step checklist for REAL ID application
- Track DMV appointment and document gathering
- Passport renewal guides
- Earn XP as you complete tasks
Document Organization
- Keep all travel IDs in one place
- Organize by type (national ID, driver’s license, passports, visas)
- Quick sharing with trusted contacts
- Export documents when needed
Start Organizing Your Travel Documents with Aqee →
Recent REAL ID News and Updates
TSA Begins Full Enforcement (May 7, 2025)
The TSA published the final rule on REAL ID enforcement, confirming:
- No further deadline extensions
- All states are fully compliant
- Alternative IDs remain accepted
- Enhanced screening for non-compliant passengers
State Preparation Efforts
Many states launched public awareness campaigns:
- Georgia and Florida: 99%+ compliance achieved
- Low-compliance states offering extended DMV hours
- Mobile DMV units in rural areas
- Online pre-verification systems
Airport Readiness
Major airports report:
- Additional TSA lanes for REAL ID verification
- Information kiosks and signage
- Staff trained on alternative ID acceptance
- Contingency plans for heavy traffic
Beyond Airports: Other Uses for REAL ID
REAL ID isn’t just for flying. You’ll also need it to:
Federal Facilities
- Visiting Social Security offices
- Entering IRS buildings
- Accessing federal courthouses
- Touring federal museums and monuments
Military Installations
- Visiting military bases
- Accessing secure areas
- Attending events on military property
Nuclear Power Plants
- Tours of nuclear facilities
- Employment at regulated facilities
Note: Requirements vary by facility. Some may have stricter ID requirements beyond REAL ID.
Conclusion
The May 7, 2025 REAL ID deadline is a significant change for all U.S. domestic travelers. While it may seem like an inconvenience, the enhanced security standards help protect all travelers.
Key Takeaways:
- Get your REAL ID now if you haven’t already
- Allow 3-6 weeks for processing
- Use your passport as a backup option
- Don’t wait until the last minute
- Track expiration dates with tools like Aqee
The good news? Once you have your REAL ID, it’s valid for 4-8 years (depending on your state), so you won’t need to worry about it again for a while.
Ready to get your REAL ID? Visit your state’s DMV website today to schedule an appointment. Your future self will thank you when you breeze through airport security!
Stay organized and never miss important document deadlines. Use Aqee’s Smart Vault to track your REAL ID, passport, and all travel documents in one secure place. Get reminded before expiration dates and travel stress-free.
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