You Only Have Three Months to Get a Real ID
After nearly two decades of delays, the Real ID will start being enforced May 7, 2025
The Real ID requirements in the United States have been fickle, to say the least. After a nearly two-decade delay, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finally chosen a date after which all American travelers will need to provide a Real ID to board a flight in the U.S.
The official deadline comes after the DHS voiced concerns that the public has not been taking the identification requirements seriously. They might be onto something; as of January 2024, only 56 percent of driver's licenses were Real ID-compliant. It's not entirely our fault, though. The public's lack of urgency to secure a Real ID is likely due to the vague and confusing series of deadlines that resulted from the mandate being repeatedly delayed, leading many to doubt if the requirement would be put in place at all.
Regardless of which future you believe awaits the Real ID requirement, it's imperative to lock yours down now. Already, the DHS expects a significant number of people to rush to get a Real ID at the last minute or even after the deadline. Plus, if too many travelers arrive to the airport without a Real ID, the results could be chaotic. According to the DHS, this could lead to "longer lines, general delays, confusion, and frustration," which could in turn "pose potential security risks at access points to TSA security checkpoints or other Federal facilities."
We've outlined everything you need to know about the Real ID requirements to help ensure the airport process goes smoothly come May 7.
Why do I need a Real ID?
The Real ID Act, which was passed in 2005, is designed to "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses," according to DHS. It basically means that the federal government requires more documentation to prove your identity and personal information before you are issued an official form of government identification. This ensures a standard driver's license will no longer be considered a valid form of identification at U.S. airports.
Who needs a Real ID?
Starting May 7, 2025, any U.S. travelers 18 or older will need a U.S. passport, a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a U.S. military ID, a DHS Trusted Traveler Card, or an enhanced driver's license to get through airport security.
How can I get my Real ID?
According to DHS, the DMV will require the following information to issue you a Real ID:
- Full Legal Name
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number
- Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence
- Lawful Status
Individual states may require additional information, so check with your state's DMV for the specific requirements. The DHS has a quick state-by-state guide to help you find that information easily.
What else do I need to know about Real ID?
Just a reminder that these Real ID cards can't be used interchangeably with passports. You will not be able to travel internationally with your Real ID. Passport wait times are still longer than average, so when you make your DMV appointment, you may as well get your passport renewal in order as well.
Looking for more travel info?
Whether you accidentally show up to the airport without ID, need to know the visa requirements for traveling abroad, or want to move to Canada to avoid all of this mess, we’ve got you covered.
Opheli Garcia Lawler is a Staff Writer on the News team at Thrillist. Follow her on Twitter @opheligarcia and Instagram @opheligarcia.