EYCmay25

REAL I.D. is HERE!

REAL ID is here and travelers across the U.S. will need a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable federal ID to fly domestically or enter secure federal buildings. Many are still unsure what qualifies, how to apply, and what documents are needed. I’ll try to break down everything I know from what the REAL ID star means to which states already issue Enhanced Driver’s Licenses. I’ll also lists backup TSA-accepted IDs if you don’t have one yet. Don’t risk missing your flight- here’s what you need to know.

As of May 7th, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) enforced and implemented the REAL ID Act (as passed by Congress). The date was pushed a couple of times but now the Federal Government is saying that a REAL ID is required for domestic air travel and to enter federal buildings. These new security standards of driver's licenses and state identification cards now have to be met for federal purposes- including passing through airport security checkpoints. Think of it as a Passport for domestic travel which incidentally, your US Passport, already a federal document, may be (and has been) used by many travelers for domestic travel.

The REAL ID Act establishes security standards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting certain driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards. If your ID doesn’t meet the new standards, you’ll be asked to show another TSA-approved identification document- or you won’t be allowed to board a plane.

Some states are already REAL I.D. compliant

meaning they have worked with the Federal Government (The Act has been passed by congress since 2005.) Real ID Driver’s Licenses will have 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 compliant with REAL ID Act:

“My own license was expiring so I renewed it online- easy peasy. A few clicks, a couple of numbers, verify this, and confirm that. Press finished and print out your temporary card until your actual card is sent to you via mail. About a week later, my driver’s license comes and I’m super excited to get my “star” or maybe I was getting the bear (I didn’t know what my state was issuing.) I look to the upper left corner than to the upper right corner- nothing. But right underneath the words Auto Driver License, in all caps it read: NOT FOR “REAL ID” PURPOSES. Ehhhhh… what now? What’s going on here?”

Turns out that if you renew your driver’s license online (in NJ anyway), you have to make an appointment at your local MVC and you have to bring your 6-pt identification markers. In some states you can just tick that you want REAL ID, and in other states, new driver’s licenses may have the star or bear marking on the driver’s license already.I’m just going to use my federal US Passport.

Which 5 States have a Head-start to REAL I.D. ?

Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington all issued what's called Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) and those are also acceptable for boarding domestic flights and crossing U.S. land or sea borders.

Remember: US Passports can be used as REAL ID Licenses

*REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings or other international travel.

For information on other acceptable forms for boarding aircrafts, visit TSA at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

Visit the Department of Homeland Security

What Documents Do You Need to Get a REAL ID?

If you need to apply for a REAL ID, you’ll need to visit your local DMV (or make an appointment online), depending on your state. You’ll be asked to bring several documents as proof of your identity:

• Full legal name

• Date of birth

• Social Security card

• Two proofs of address (like utility bills or lease agreements)

• Proof of legal presence in the U.S. (passport, birth certificate, green card, etc.)

It’s important to bring original documents- photocopies might not be accepted. Each state has slightly different requirements, so it’s a good idea to check your DMV’s / MVC's website.

Can You Still Fly without a REAL ID After May 7?

Yes, but only if you have one of the alternative TSA-approved forms of identification. These include:

• U.S. passport or passport card

• Foreign government-issued passport

• Department of Defense ID

• Permanent Resident Card

• DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)

• Veteran Health Identification Card

• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

• Tribal-issued photo ID or Enhanced Tribal Card

• U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

Where Will I Need a REAL ID Besides the Airport?

REAL ID isn’t just for flying. According to the Department of Homeland Security, you’ll also need a REAL ID or equivalent to access:

• Military bases

• Nuclear facilities

• Certain federal buildings that require ID for entry

It doesn’t apply to places like post offices or Social Security officesjust at higher-security federal facilities.

Remember: US Passports can be used as REAL ID Licenses

*REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings or other international travel.

For information on other acceptable forms for boarding aircrafts, visit TSA at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

Visit the Department of Homeland Security https://www.tsa.gov/real-id/real-id-faqs