If you’re planning to catch a flight within the U.S. after May 7, 2025, you’ll need to dig out your ID and make sure it’s up to snuff. That’s when the federal government is finally putting its foot down, requiring a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification to board domestic flights. After years of delays, the deadline’s here, and it’s got travelers double-checking their wallets.
Back in 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act to beef up security for state-issued IDs after 9/11. The idea was simple: make sure driver’s licenses are legit and harder to fake. But rolling it out? That’s been a slog—pushed back over and over because of state budget issues, logistical messes, and even the pandemic. Now, though, the Department of Homeland Security says it’s game on.
So, what’s the deal with REAL ID? It’s basically a driver’s license that meets tougher federal rules. Look for a little star in the top corner of your license—if it’s there, you’re golden. If not, you’ll need to swing by the DMV with a stack of documents: something like a birth certificate to prove who you are, proof of your Social Security number, and a couple of bills or a lease to show where you live. Each state does it a bit differently, so check what your DMV needs.
Don’t want to deal with a new license? No problem. You can use a U.S. passport or passport card instead. Other options include things like a permanent resident card or an Enhanced Driver’s License if you’re in a state like Michigan or Minnesota that offers them. Good news for parents: kids under 18 don’t need to flash any ID when they’re traveling with you.
The TSA, which handles airport security, says they’re ready for the switch but might ease into it with a “soft” rollout to avoid chaos. Still, they’re begging folks to get prepared now. Roughly four out of five travelers are already using compliant IDs, but that leaves millions who aren’t. With airports packed daily, nobody wants a last-minute scramble.
If your license is missing that star, don’t wait. DMVs are starting to get swamped, and the closer we get to May, the crazier it’ll be. Book an appointment, gather your papers, and sort it out. Oh, and don’t stress if you’re flying internationally—a passport’s still all you need for that.
Take a peek at your ID now. You don’t want to be stuck at the airport, waving goodbye to your plane because your license didn’t make the cut. Get ahead of it, and you’ll breeze through security like it’s just another day.