TSA confirms ?these U.S.states will not require Real ID after May 7, 2025
Source
American Shipper
Post Date
05/13/2025
Your Real ID needs to be ready by May 7. That? whatofficial sources say, and if you plan to take a domestic flight, you?l needthis new form of identification. This isn? something new, don? act surprised,it? been in the works since the 9/11 attacks, but it will finally go intoeffect on May 7.
Do you have your Real ID ready?
Starting May 7, 2025, if you?ein the United States and plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings, you?lneed an ID that meets Real ID standards. This change will affect the vastmajority of residents in the country. It? one more adjustment, but it?necessary to maintain national security.
What is the Real ID and why is it important?
The Real ID is a new form of identificationthat meets stricter federal requirements. You can recognize it by a gold starin the upper right corner. After the date mentioned, it will be required toboard domestic flights and access federal facilities.
However, five states are ?xempt?from this newrule.
The exception
If you live in Washington, Michigan, Minnesota,New York, or Vermont, you can opt for an Enhanced Driver? License (EDL). Theselicenses meet federal requirements and allow you to cross land borders withCanada and Mexico, in addition to serving as valid ID for domestic flights.
And the rest of the country?
For residents of the other 45 states, getting aReal ID is essential if they plan to fly within the country or visit federalbuildings. If your current license doesn? have the gold star, chances are youwon? be allowed access.
How to get a Real ID
The process varies by state, but generallyyou?l need:
? ?Proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport) ? ?Social Security number ? ?Two proofs of state residency ? ?Proof of legal status in the U.S. ?
It? recommed to visit your state?Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for specific information and to bookan appointment, you may have to wait, but the process is quick once you?ethere.
What happens if you don? have a Real ID by May 7?
If you don? have a Real ID or an acceptednative (like a passport), you could face delays or even be denied accesswhen trying to board a domestic flight or enter federal facilities.
It? important to be aware of this. It? aregulation, and the TSA has warned there will be no more deadline extensions.
What does the law say and where does it come from?
The law is called the Real ID Act, and it waspassed by Congress in 2005!! Its main goal is to strengthen national securityafter the 9/11 attacks so it never happens again (and especially to make iteasier to identify those responsible).
The Real ID aims to verify as many details aspossible about each U.S. resident, and it also adds physical security featuresto make the document impossible to counterfeit.
How do I know if I already have a Real ID?
Grab your documentation and check the top rightcorner. If it has a star (black, white, or gold) inside a circle, you?e goodto go. If not, it? time to take a little trip to the DMV if you want yourpaperwork in order.
Is it mandatory?
No, it? not mandatory as a citizen, unless youneed to travel by plane or enter federal buildings. For now, those are the onlyplaces where you?l be required to have a Real ID. So, if you?e not in a rush,you can wait for the crowds to die down and apply later at your own pace.
If you live in one of the five states withenhanced licenses, check if your current one meets the requirements. Foreveryone else, now? the time to act and avoid problems down the road.
