How to Fly After May 7th If You Don’t Have a REAL ID
The final (final) deadline for compliance with the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID requirement has arrived, and unlike many times in the two decades since the new rules were enacted, it does not appear that air travelers are getting another extension to obtain an ID that qualifies.
The REAL ID Act of 2005 aimed to standardize state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards by 2008, although implementation was delayed until 2020, then 2023, and then 2025. Beginning May 7, anyone 18 years of age or older going through airport security or entering certain federal buildings with a license will need a REAL ID.
In recent years, many states have issued REAL IDs when renewing or renewing a license, so if you have a gold or black star in your corner, you’re good to go. However, if you postpone this change, you will still be able to fly with an alternative ID.
REAL ID Alternatives for Air Travel
If you need to go through a TSA checkpoint after May 7 and do not have a REAL ID compliant license, you may use one of the following alternative forms of identification :
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US passport
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USA Passport Card
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DHS Trusted Traveler Card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
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Advanced State Driver’s License (available only to residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington)
TSA will also accept IDs such as Enhanced Tribal Cards, Permanent Resident and Border Crossing Cards, Department of Defense IDs (and other federal employee IDs), and foreign passports. TSA accepts expired IDs for up to a year after expiration, and you may still be allowed to go through security without a valid ID after completing the ID verification process.
To get a REAL ID, you’ll need to check your state’s requirements . These typically include verification of your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, address, and residential status. You will also need to come in person to have your photo taken and pay a fee. A REAL ID is only required to go through security at airports (and some federal buildings)—you don’t need it to drive or vote.