REAL ID Deadline May 7: What You Need to Avoid Travel Delays/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Starting May 7, 2025, all domestic U.S. flyers must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or valid alternative at TSA checkpoints. The Department of Homeland Security is sticking to this deadline after years of delays. Travelers without a REAL ID may face long delays, extra screening—or miss their flight.
REAL ID 2025 Deadline Quick Looks:
- Deadline: May 7, 2025
- Required for: Domestic flights, federal buildings
- REAL ID symbol: Usually a star in the corner
- Enhanced IDs accepted in select states
- No more delays expected, says TSA
- Don’t have one? Use passport or TSA-approved ID
- Check your state DMV site for how to apply
Deep Look: REAL ID Deadline Is May 7—Here’s What Travelers Need to Know
NEW YORK (AP) – After nearly two decades of delays and pandemic-related postponements, the REAL ID deadline is finally here. Beginning May 7, 2025, most Americans will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to fly domestically or enter secure federal facilities.
This isn’t just another advisory — the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has no plans to extend the deadline this time, and millions of travelers could face last-minute travel stress if they haven’t checked their ID.
What Is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID is a federally compliant, state-issued license or ID that meets security standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005, which was passed in response to recommendations from the 9/11 Commission.
“The improvements are intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification,” said John Essig, TSA Security Director for New York-area airports.
Do You Already Have a REAL ID?
Many travelers already have one — and may not even know it.
If your license or ID has a star in the upper corner, it’s REAL ID-compliant.
“Some people who have recently renewed their license may already have a compliant ID and not know it,” says Nina Ruggiero, senior editor at Travel + Leisure.
If you live in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington, you might have an Enhanced ID, marked with a U.S. flag icon and the word “Enhanced.” These are also accepted for air travel and can be used at land or sea borders with Canada and Mexico.
How to Get a REAL ID
Getting your REAL ID depends on your state. You’ll likely need to:
- Visit your state DMV website
- Schedule an appointment
- Bring original documents, including:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
- Social Security number
- Two proofs of residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
Requirements can vary by state, so checking your local DMV’s website is crucial.
What Happens If You Don’t Have One by May 7?
If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant license and try to board a domestic flight after May 7, you’ll need to show an alternative TSA-approved ID, like a U.S. passport or military ID.
Without one of these, you may not be allowed through security.
“You could face delays, additional screening, or be turned away at the checkpoint,” warns TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein.
Another Delay? Unlikely.
Despite requests from state officials — including a group of Kentucky senators — the TSA has no intention of pushing the deadline again, according to spokesperson Dan Velez.
That means May 7 is effectively the final cutoff.
As of late April, 81% of travelers were already presenting REAL ID-compliant identification at TSA checkpoints, according to DHS.
REAL ID Travel Checklist:
- Check your current license for a star or enhanced label
- Visit your state DMV website for REAL ID requirements
- Book an appointment ASAP — DMV slots may fill fast
- Pack an alternative ID (like a passport) if you don’t have a REAL ID yet
- Plan ahead for all domestic travel after May 7
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