Don’t miss the REAL ID deadline—check now if your ID actually qualifies
- Replies 1
Time is running out for travelers who haven’t yet updated their identification.
With the May 7, 2025, REAL ID enforcement date fast approaching, many Americans—especially those over 60—are wondering whether their current driver’s license or enhanced ID will be enough for boarding domestic flights or entering secure federal facilities.
If you're unsure where you stand, now is the time to get informed and take action.
The law sets uniform federal standards for IDs used for specific federal purposes—like flying domestically or accessing military bases and nuclear facilities.
Beginning May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an approved alternative to clear TSA checkpoints at US airports.
REAL ID cards are typically marked with a star on the upper portion. If your current license says "Not for Federal Identification," it won’t meet the new travel requirements.
These IDs are not marked with a star but are still federally accepted for domestic air travel and federal facility access.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, an EDL is a valid REAL ID alternative.
Beyond being REAL ID-compliant, EDLs offer additional benefits: US citizens can use them to re-enter the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean—something standard REAL IDs don’t provide.
More like this: Federal voting process faces major shift under Trump’s new executive order
And for those traveling with children under 18, no REAL ID is required as long as the accompanying adult has proper documentation.
It’s also worth noting: contrary to some concerns, REAL ID does not create a federal ID database.
States remain in control of their records and are responsible for issuing and maintaining your identification.
More like this: Flying soon? Here’s why not having this ID by May could ground your travel plans
Check your current ID. If it's not REAL ID-compliant and you don’t live in a state that offers EDLs—or if you simply want to ensure smoother travel—it’s a good idea to upgrade sooner rather than later.
With the deadline looming, many DMV offices are experiencing long wait times and appointment backlogs.
For those already holding an EDL, there’s no need to take additional action. Just make sure it’s current and hasn’t expired.
Read next: Is your city next? How Trump’s shocking legal move could affect you
Have questions about your ID or the upcoming changes? Drop your concerns or tips in the comments—let’s help each other stay informed and ready for takeoff.
With the May 7, 2025, REAL ID enforcement date fast approaching, many Americans—especially those over 60—are wondering whether their current driver’s license or enhanced ID will be enough for boarding domestic flights or entering secure federal facilities.
If you're unsure where you stand, now is the time to get informed and take action.
What Is the REAL ID Act?
Originally passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act was based on a key recommendation to tighten security around state-issued identification.The law sets uniform federal standards for IDs used for specific federal purposes—like flying domestically or accessing military bases and nuclear facilities.
Beginning May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an approved alternative to clear TSA checkpoints at US airports.
REAL ID cards are typically marked with a star on the upper portion. If your current license says "Not for Federal Identification," it won’t meet the new travel requirements.
What About Enhanced Driver’s Licenses?
If you live in New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Washington, or Vermont, you may already have an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL).These IDs are not marked with a star but are still federally accepted for domestic air travel and federal facility access.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, an EDL is a valid REAL ID alternative.
Beyond being REAL ID-compliant, EDLs offer additional benefits: US citizens can use them to re-enter the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean—something standard REAL IDs don’t provide.
More like this: Federal voting process faces major shift under Trump’s new executive order
Don’t Have a REAL ID or EDL?
No need to panic. Other federally accepted forms of identification—such as a US passport, passport card, or Trusted Traveler Program card (like Global Entry or NEXUS)—will still get you through airport security.And for those traveling with children under 18, no REAL ID is required as long as the accompanying adult has proper documentation.
It’s also worth noting: contrary to some concerns, REAL ID does not create a federal ID database.
States remain in control of their records and are responsible for issuing and maintaining your identification.
How to Prepare Before the Deadline
More like this: Flying soon? Here’s why not having this ID by May could ground your travel plans
Check your current ID. If it's not REAL ID-compliant and you don’t live in a state that offers EDLs—or if you simply want to ensure smoother travel—it’s a good idea to upgrade sooner rather than later.
With the deadline looming, many DMV offices are experiencing long wait times and appointment backlogs.
For those already holding an EDL, there’s no need to take additional action. Just make sure it’s current and hasn’t expired.
International Travel Reminder
REAL IDs and EDLs are only valid for domestic air travel and select land/sea re-entry. For international flights, you’ll still need a traditional passport.Read next: Is your city next? How Trump’s shocking legal move could affect you
