• The Real ID Act enforcement begins on May 7, 2025, requiring travelers to present a Real ID or other acceptable identification for domestic flights.
• Travelers without a Real ID will still be allowed to fly but may be subject to additional security screening, potentially causing delays.
• Various alternative forms of identification, such as U.S. passports, military IDs, and Global Entry cards, will be accepted at airport checkpoints.

On May 7, 2025, the enforcement of the Real ID Act commences, impacting domestic air travel within the United States. This federal law, recommended by the 9/11 Commission and enacted in 2005, mandates that state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards meet specific federal security standards to be accepted for boarding flights and accessing federal facilities. While the TSA will permit travelers without Real IDs to fly, they may undergo additional screening procedures, potentially causing delays and increased scrutiny at airport checkpoints.

• What: Enforcement of the Real ID Act, requiring travelers to present compliant identification for domestic air travel, with provisions for additional screening for those without Real IDs.
• Who: Travelers, Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), airlines, state DMVs, civil rights groups.
• When: Enforcement begins on May 7, 2025. The REAL ID Act was initially signed into law in 2005 but repeatedly delayed.
• Where: U.S. airports and federal facilities.

The enforcement of the Real ID Act marks a significant shift in domestic air travel security measures. While the TSA aims to enhance security standards and prevent fraudulent identification, the implementation raises concerns about potential delays, increased scrutiny for travelers without Real IDs, and the impact on airline operations. The ACLU and other civil rights groups have voiced concerns about privacy violations due to the creation of a national identification system and potential discrimination against immigrants. The long-awaited implementation, delayed multiple times since 2005, reflects the complexities of coordinating federal and state efforts to enhance security measures. The degree to which airlines accommodate passengers affected by the new regulations is also a significant consideration.

they may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step, but people will be allowed to fly.

We will process you (and you) will not be turned away. It might take some additional time, but we’re going to do it efficiently. We are fully staffed at all locations across the country.

With the Real ID Act enforcement now in effect as of today, May 7, 2025, travelers should anticipate potential changes to their airport experience. While those with Real ID-compliant licenses or other acceptable forms of identification, such as U.S. passports, military IDs, or Enhanced Driver's Licenses, will likely proceed through security checkpoints without issue, those without compliant identification may face additional screening, potentially longer wait times, and the possibility of being directed to a separate screening area. To minimize disruptions, it is highly advisable to carry alternative acceptable identification and arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled departure. While the TSA aims to minimize operational disruptions, travelers should stay informed about airline policies and TSA guidelines, as well as be prepared for a potentially more cumbersome screening process if their identification is not Real ID compliant. It's important to note that even TSA PreCheck members will need to present Real ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative. For international travel, a valid passport remains a necessity.