Flying Soon? Here’s What You Need to Know About REAL ID Requirements

As of May 7, millions of Americans will face restrictions on using their government-issued photo IDs—typically, a driver’s license—for accessing domestic flights, entering federal buildings, or visiting nuclear power plants. This is part of a legislative initiative that Congress initiated 20 years ago, which is finally being implemented.

The term “REAL ID” stems from the Real ID Act of 2005, enacted a few years following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, due to heightened security concerns regarding the identities of individuals accessing potential terrorist targets.

A REAL ID is issued by a state following a more rigorous identity verification process. To apply for a REAL ID, individuals must present proof of lawful status in the United States. A distinguishing feature of a REAL ID is either a black or gold star in the upper corner of the card.

For U.S. citizens, the primary application of the REAL ID will be for air travel. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will only accept state-issued IDs that are REAL IDs or compliant documents. As a result, many Americans who do not possess a REAL ID will be unable to fly.

Here’s additional information regarding the initiative.

Obtaining a REAL ID or Alternatives

All U.S. citizens qualified for state ID cards are also eligible for REAL ID. Conversely, foreign nationals may also be eligible, depending on their immigration status in the United States.

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The procedure to apply for a REAL ID differs across states. Typically, applicants will need to visit a state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a comparable agency, similar to the process for acquiring a driver’s license. In preparation for the May 7 deadline, certain state DMV offices have set up special appointments to assist in converting existing IDs into REAL IDs.

To obtain a REAL ID, applicants must present proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, an unexpired passport, passport card, or consular report of birth abroad).

Foreign nationals will likely be asked to provide their passports along with proof of lawful status in the U.S., like a permanent resident card (often referred to as a “green card”), a visa stamp in their passport, or other documents from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), such as an I-94 Record of Admission or I-797A Notice of Approval.

The duration for which a REAL ID remains valid for foreign nationals may be dictated by their authorized stay in the U.S., necessitating more frequent reapplications. Tourists on B-1/B-2 visas do not qualify for REAL ID.

In addition, every applicant for a REAL ID must produce an original Social Security card issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or other documentation exhibiting their Social Security Number (e.g., a W-2 form). Furthermore, they must provide at least two proofs of residency within that state or jurisdiction. Acceptable forms of proof may vary depending on the state.

As mentioned earlier, most REAL IDs will be classified as driver’s licenses or state-issued IDs for non-drivers. Due to the citizenship verification criteria, obtaining REAL IDs is likely to involve higher costs compared to standard driver’s licenses or state IDs. Non-REAL IDs may still be issued by states and recognized by them; however, as of May 7, these will not be valid for federal usage and will probably include a designation stating “Not Valid for Federal Purposes” on the plastic card.

It’s important to note that a REAL ID cannot be used for international air travel; a passport booklet will still be required.

It remains uncertain whether mobile driver’s licenses, which are digital credentials that can be stored in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, will be permissible for REAL ID purposes.

Any foreign national who entered the U.S. without inspection or those who were lawfully admitted but overstayed their authorized period (without applying for a new status or pursuing asylum) will be ineligible for a REAL ID, which necessitates proof of valid lawful status. Without a REAL ID, such individuals will not be permitted to fly domestically or access federal facilities.

Numerous states, especially those governed by Democratic leadership or progressive politicians, provide identification to illegal immigrants that closely resembles IDs issued to U.S. citizens. However, the REAL ID will establish a tangible distinction, which could be leveraged for immigration enforcement actions.

That said, there are two exceptions.

Domestic Opposition

The Real ID Act originally mandated compliance from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five territories by May 11, 2008. Nevertheless, opposition from various states delayed its implementation, as many were reluctant to align their ID processes with the program, perceiving it as an additional burden.

Ultimately, most states adhered, and by 2014, the phased enforcement of REAL ID began at certain federal facilities. Yet, processing delays and many citizens’ reluctance to update their IDs compelled the federal government to prolong the deadline multiple times, with three extensions occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic alone.

The Trump administration has opted to see the program implemented in full by the May 7 deadline, aligning with its policy goal of expelling illegal immigrants from the U.S. and excluding them from domestic benefits.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has expressed her support for the program.

Some libertarian politicians, including Republicans, opposing what they perceive as “government overreach,” have raised objections to the REAL ID program, citing potential risks of increased government surveillance on citizens.

“The majority of the 9/11 hijackers possessed passports from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, or Lebanon. Real ID represents a national standard and centralized database of IDs, which primarily serves as a control mechanism over Americans. Trump should not enforce it,” he continued.

Additionally, various airport authorities warn that the inconveniences associated with obtaining a REAL ID and instances of non-compliance may lead to travel delays, long lines, and frustrated passengers at airports.