Real ID deadline is coming: What it means for you—and which states offer another option
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If you’ve been meaning to look into the upcoming Real ID deadline, now’s the time.
Starting May 7, 2025, Americans will need Real ID-compliant identification (or another approved document) to board domestic flights and access certain federal buildings.
But depending on where you live, you may already have an alternative—and you might not need to make any changes at all.
Whether you travel regularly or only fly occasionally, it’s important to understand what’s changing, which states offer different options, and how to be prepared well before the deadline.
The Real ID Act, passed in 2005, was designed to improve security and standardize the process for issuing identification across states.
Real IDs are typically marked with a gold or blakc star in the upper corner of your driver’s license or ID card.
Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a Real ID—or an approved alternative—to:
If you show up to the airport without one, TSA may turn you away—unless you have another federally accepted form of ID.
Not every state is following the exact same process.
Residents of Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont can opt for an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) instead of a Real ID.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses are federally approved for both domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.
They also allow land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries—no passport required for those entries.
Also read: Don’t miss the REAL ID deadline—check now if your ID actually qualifies
What’s the difference between a Real ID and an EDL?
Not sure which one you have?
Check your license for a flag icon or the word "Enhanced", or ask your state DMV.
If you're not in one of those five states, you'll need a Real ID or another approved document for airport security or federal access after May 7.
Acceptable alternatives include:
To apply for a Real ID, visit your local DMV with the following:
Tip: Requirements may vary slightly by state. Check your local DMV website for specific guidance, and see if you can start the process online to save time.
You will still be able to drive, vote, and use your regular license for most everyday activities, but for travel and federal access, you’ll need to plan ahead.
DMVs are expecting a rush closer to the May 7, 2025 deadline.
Whether you upgrade to a Real ID, already have an Enhanced Driver’s License, or rely on a passport, now’s the time to check your wallet and be sure you’re travel-ready for May 7, 2025.
Read next: Flying soon? Check out the TSA's full list of approved IDs to avoid those dreaded airport delays!
Have you already switched to a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License? Or do you have questions about the process? Let us know in the comments—your experience could help another reader prepare.
Starting May 7, 2025, Americans will need Real ID-compliant identification (or another approved document) to board domestic flights and access certain federal buildings.
But depending on where you live, you may already have an alternative—and you might not need to make any changes at all.
Whether you travel regularly or only fly occasionally, it’s important to understand what’s changing, which states offer different options, and how to be prepared well before the deadline.
The Real ID Act, passed in 2005, was designed to improve security and standardize the process for issuing identification across states.
Real IDs are typically marked with a gold or blakc star in the upper corner of your driver’s license or ID card.
Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID or approved alternative will be required for domestic flights and access to federal facilities. Image Source: YouTube / TODAY.
Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a Real ID—or an approved alternative—to:
- Board a domestic flight
- Enter certain federal buildings and military facilities
If you show up to the airport without one, TSA may turn you away—unless you have another federally accepted form of ID.
Five states with Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs)
Not every state is following the exact same process.
Residents of Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont can opt for an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) instead of a Real ID.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses are federally approved for both domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.
They also allow land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries—no passport required for those entries.
Also read: Don’t miss the REAL ID deadline—check now if your ID actually qualifies
What’s the difference between a Real ID and an EDL?
| Enhanced Driver’s License | |
Complies with federal standards for air travel and federal access | Complies with federal standards for air travel and driving to Canada and Mexico | |
Issued in all states | Only available in WA, MI, MN, NY, and VT | |
Marked with a star | Marked with a US flag or the word “Enhanced” |
Not sure which one you have?
Check your license for a flag icon or the word "Enhanced", or ask your state DMV.
Also read: Still don’t have a REAL ID? You may already have what you need
What if you live in another state?
If you're not in one of those five states, you'll need a Real ID or another approved document for airport security or federal access after May 7.
Acceptable alternatives include:
- A valid US passport or passport card
- Permanent resident card (Green Card)
- Border crossing card
- US merchant mariner credential
- Canadian provincial license (for Canadian visitors)
- Other documents approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Also read: Beat the rush: Here’s how you can skip the queue for a new ID with just $80—find out if you’re eligible
How to get a Real ID
To apply for a Real ID, visit your local DMV with the following:
- Proof of full legal name and date of birth (e.g., birth certificate or valid passport)
- Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub)
- Two documents showing state residency (utility bill, bank statement, lease, etc.)
- Proof of lawful status in the US.
Tip: Requirements may vary slightly by state. Check your local DMV website for specific guidance, and see if you can start the process online to save time.
You will still be able to drive, vote, and use your regular license for most everyday activities, but for travel and federal access, you’ll need to plan ahead.
DMVs are expecting a rush closer to the May 7, 2025 deadline.
Whether you upgrade to a Real ID, already have an Enhanced Driver’s License, or rely on a passport, now’s the time to check your wallet and be sure you’re travel-ready for May 7, 2025.
Read next: Flying soon? Check out the TSA's full list of approved IDs to avoid those dreaded airport delays!
Have you already switched to a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License? Or do you have questions about the process? Let us know in the comments—your experience could help another reader prepare.
