Starting May 7, 2025, travelers in the U.S. will need REAL ID-compliant identification to board domestic flights and access federal facilities, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) enforces new security protocols. Certain standard driver’s licenses will no longer be accepted, prompting many residents to rush to motor vehicle offices to obtain compliant IDs, leading to increased wait times.
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card featuring a star in the upper right corner, indicating compliance with federal standards established by the REAL ID Act of 2005. This act was enacted to enhance security following the 9/11 attacks and ensures that federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), only accept certain forms of identification.
To obtain a REAL ID, applicants must provide documentation proving their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two address proofs, and verified immigration status, though requirements may vary by state. It’s key to check state-specific guidelines before applying. Notably, TSA will not accept temporary paper cards from DMVs.
If travelers do not present a REAL ID-compliant form of I.D. at airport checkpoints, they may face additional scrutiny and screenings if they lack alternative acceptable identification such as a passport. For children under 18, identification is not required when traveling with companions, though passports are still necessary for international trips.
In addition, while a REAL ID allows domestic air travel, a passport is essential for international journeys, ensuring a clear distinction in identification requirements based on the nature of travel.
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