About to head to the airport? Check your ID—seriously.
Starting May 7, 2025, your regular driver’s license might not get you past TSA, and no, they won’t make an exception just because you “didn’t know.” One small detail could unravel your entire trip before it even starts.
If your ID isn’t REAL ID-compliant, you could be turned away at security—while your flight takes off without you.
Below is everything you need to know before this sneaky little deadline ruins your next adventure:
So… What Even Is a REAL ID?
Let’s back up a bit. The REAL ID Act was passed way back in 2005, after the 9/11 Commission recommended the federal government tighten up how states issue IDs.
The idea is to make it harder for anyone to use fake documents to board planes or enter secure federal buildings.
A REAL ID is basically your state-issued driver’s license or ID, but upgraded with extra identity checks baked in. Most states mark them with a little gold or black star in the top right corner. If you live in a state like Washington, it’s a little different—some states get Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs), which say “Enhanced” and have a U.S. flag instead of a star. They’re still REAL ID-compliant.
If you’re like me and usually toss your license in your bag without even looking at it, now’s the time to give it a second glance.
Who Actually Needs One?
Short answer: anyone 18 or older who wants to fly domestically.
Long answer: If you show up at the airport without a REAL ID (or another approved ID—we’ll get to that), TSA will turn you away faster than you can say “connecting flight.” You don’t need it to drive, buy wine, or check into a hotel—but flying? That’s a hard yes.
Kids under 18 are off the hook—they can still travel without showing ID, as long as they’re with an adult.
What Counts Instead of a REAL ID?
Don’t panic if you don’t have one yet. There are other forms of ID that will still work just fine at the airport:
- A valid U.S. passport or passport card
- A foreign passport
- A green card (permanent resident card)
- An Enhanced Driver’s License (Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont)
- A trusted traveler card like Global Entry or NEXUS
- A Department of Defense ID
- A tribal-issued photo ID
- A Veteran Health ID Card
- A few other niche government-issued IDs
Basically, if it’s government-issued, not expired, and already on TSA’s “good list,” you’re in the clear. Check out the official list here.
REAL ID vs. Enhanced ID: What’s the Difference?
If you’re in Washington, you’ve probably seen both terms thrown around. Here’s the breakdown:
- REAL ID meets the federal standard for flying domestically.
- Enhanced IDs go a step further and prove U.S. citizenship too.
That extra detail means you can use an Enhanced ID to cross land and sea borders into Canada or Mexico, which is handy if you’re road-tripping or hopping on a ferry. (But no, it still doesn’t work for international air travel—you’ll need a passport for that.)
How to Get One Without Losing Your Mind
If you’re upgrading your standard license to an Enhanced ID (or getting your first REAL ID), here are a few things that you will definitely need to bring to the DMV:
- Proof of identity (like a passport or birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of residency
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (only if going for Enhanced)
I highly recommend checking your state’s Department of Licensing website before you go—they’ve got a checklist that can save you from showing up with a stack of papers and still missing the one thing they actually need.
Here is a link to find every state’s DMV website to make it easy.
Fees for REAL IDs and Enhanced IDs will vary from state to state.
What If I Can’t Get One in Time?
DMV appointments are booking up like concert tickets—especially at busy locations. If you’re cutting it close:
- Try a walk-in, but get there early.
- Bring your passport (or another TSA-approved ID) if your new license hasn’t arrived yet.
The TSA will still let you through as long as you have one of their accepted IDs. But don’t count on charm alone—they’re not likely to be lenient if you show up with just a smile and your library card.
Quick Recap:
- ✅ You need a REAL ID or TSA-approved ID to fly domestically starting May 7, 2025.
- 📅 Book your DMV appointment early (or arrive early for a walk-in).
- 🧾 Bring the right documents or check your DMV’s checklist.
- ✈️ A passport works just as well—and might save you some hassle if you’re in a time crunch.
- 🚫 Don’t assume your standard license will get you through TSA after the deadline. It won’t.
This whole thing might feel like an annoying extra step—but getting it sorted now is a lot better than missing your flight later.
I’ve already double-checked my ID and booked my appointment, and I highly recommend doing the same.
Travel’s stressful enough without surprise roadblocks at security. Let this be the one you dodge ahead of time.
Want help figuring out if your ID qualifies? Drop a comment below or send me a message—I’ll do my best to point you in the right direction.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
