As millions gear up for spring and summer travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a firm warning: show up with the wrong ID, and you could face serious delays—or even be turned away at the checkpoint.

The reason? The long-anticipated enforcement of the REAL ID Act.

Starting May 7, 2025, travelers flying domestically in the US must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another TSA-approved form of identification to board their flight.

According to the TSA, “20% of passengers—roughly half a million—will likely be delayed or turned away from security checkpoints” if they don’t have the proper documentation.



The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to strengthen security standards for state-issued IDs following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

The goal, says TSA’s Federal Security Director for Vermont, Charles Woyat, is to “improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards... to prevent terrorists from evading detection using fraudulent IDs.”



REAL ID-compliant cards typically have a gold or black star in the upper portion (California has a yellow bear symbol).

If your driver’s license doesn’t have this mark, it may not be accepted for boarding domestic flights starting May 7.



Also read: Still don’t have a REAL ID? You may already have what you need

TSA-Approved Forms of ID​

The TSA has released an updated list of documents that will be accepted at security checkpoints. If your ID isn’t compliant, here are the alternatives:

• REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state photo ID
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
• US passport or US passport card
• DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• US Department of Defense ID (including IDs issued to dependents)
• Permanent Resident Card or Border Crossing Card
• Federally recognized Tribal-issued photo ID or Enhanced Tribal Card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential
• US Merchant Mariner Credential
• US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• Veteran Health Identification Card
• HSPD-12 PIV Card

Temporary driver’s licenses are not accepted, and expired IDs are only valid up to one year past the expiration date.

Children under 18 traveling with an adult do not need to present identification for domestic flights.

How to Get a REAL ID​

The process varies by state, but most require the following documentation:

• Proof of full legal name (e.g., previous driver’s license or passport)
• Date of birth (e.g., birth certificate)
• Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card)
• Two proofs of residence (e.g., utility bill or voter registration)
• Proof of lawful status

According to the Department of Homeland Security, “the application process can be started online by scanning and uploading the necessary documents and an in-person visit to the DMV or your state's department agency is necessary for an attendant to verify the documents” Don’t wait—appointments may be limited as the deadline approaches.



Also read: Flying soon? Here’s why not having this ID by May could ground your travel plans

If you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID or an alternative form of identification, you may still be able to proceed—but it’s not guaranteed.

TSA will conduct an identity verification process using personal information such as your name and current address.

“If TSA can confirm the traveler's identity, they will be permitted to proceed to security screening. But if identity can’t be confirmed, access to security will be denied.”

This applies to all travelers, including TSA PreCheck members.

TSA strongly recommends arriving at least three hours early if you’re unsure about your ID status.

In some areas, long lines have already been reported, with some travelers “sleeping in their cars overnight or paying for resold appointment slots in hopes of securing one in time.”



This is the final deadline—no more extensions. Beginning May 7, travelers without a REAL ID or an accepted alternative “will no longer be able to use non-compliant state IDs to access certain federal facilities or board domestic flights.”

To check your ID status or make an appointment, visit your state’s DMV website.

Vermont DMV Commissioner Andrew Collier reminds travelers: “To get your REAL ID-compliant license, go to the DMV website to make an appointment or visit your local DMV office with the required documents.”

Read next: Don’t miss the REAL ID deadline—check now if your ID actually qualifies

Have you already updated your ID? Share your REAL ID experience or airport travel tips with the GrayVine community in the comments below!