Are You REAL ID Ready?

Whether you're planning a quick getaway to sunny Florida, a trip to the mountains, or an exciting international adventure, make sure you are travel-ready! Having your REAL ID for U.S. flights and a passport for international travel ensures a smooth journey. 

Be REAL ID Ready

Beginning May 7, 2025, every state will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID, or another acceptable form of identification, to board commercial aircraft. Anyone18 years and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. Standard driver's licenses or ID cards will no longer suffice for these purposes. It's important to note that for international air travel, a valid passport is still required.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets federal security standards established by the REAL ID Act of 2005. These standards were implemented to enhance the reliability and accuracy of state-issued identification documents. For more information, visit dhs.gov

You will need a REAL ID if you plan to:

• Board domestic flights within the United States.

To see a map of your home state and its local requirements, visit: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id. Click on your state to make a plan with your local DMV to be REAL ID ready.

Photo Credit dhs.gov

For a comprehensive list of acceptable identification forms for federal purposes, visit the Department of Homeland Security's FAQ page: dhs.gov

How to Obtain a REAL ID

When you apply for or renew your driver’s license or state identification card, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. When you receive your new card, it will have the REAL ID star marking at the top right.

The process of getting a REAL ID and what documents you must provide depends on your state. In most cases, your state driver’s licensing agency will require you to bring:

• Proof of identity - To prove your identity, you can bring a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) if you are a non-U.S. citizen.

Ensure all documents are original or certified copies. Photocopies, scanned images, or laminated documents are not accepted. 

• Proof of a Social Security number - You can provide your Social Security card, Form W-2, which shows your earnings for tax purposes, or a pay stub or paycheck from your job.

• Proof of residency - Your state department of motor vehicles may ask you for a deed, mortgage statement, lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement to prove you are a state resident.

Look up and visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to learn how to apply and what documentation you need.

Your state DMV will outline the available options to obtain a REAL ID. Check with your local DMV for the fee schedule, application process, appointment scheduling, and any other requirements.

If you do not have a REAL ID after May 7, 2025, you can still use other forms of federally accepted identification for domestic air travel and accessing federal facilities, such as:

• A valid U.S. passport or passport card.

  
  

Key Takeaways

• Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or other acceptable identification will be required for domestic air travel and accessing certain federal facilities.

• A REAL ID is not necessary for driving, voting, or accessing hospitals.

• For international air travel, a valid passport remains mandatory.

  
  

Remember,  if you do not yet have a REAL ID you can use your passport to travel within the US. Avoid last-minute stress—apply early.