REAL ID is coming soon. Here’s what you need to know
Regulations 20 years in the making will go into effect on May 7, as adult travelers will need a Real ID to travel domestically.
If you’re planning on flying this holiday season, you’ll need more than just a ticket to board your flight. Travelers now require REAL ID-compliant identification to board federally regulated commercial aircraft. Otherwise, you will have to pay a fee if you do not have proper identification. So what exactly is a REAL ID-compliant ID?
A REAL ID-compliant ID is a state-issued identification, such as a REAL ID driver’s license or an ID card with a special symbol, that complies with the recently implemented “minimum security standards” for air travel.
With vacation travel on the rise, here’s what you need to know about REAL ID-compliant ID and how to get one.
Why do you need a REAL ID-compliant ID now?
The Transportation Security Administration will begin requiring REAL ID-compliant ID for adult travelers on U.S. domestic flights in May 2025, after two decades of pushing for stricter ID security regulations in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The 2005 REAL ID Act established the Commission’s recommendations on September 11, 2001, authorizing stricter federal requirements for the issuance of identification cards.
The new regulations outline that all air travelers over the age of 18 must have a REAL ID-compliant ID, which is a state-issued driver’s license, state-issued identification card, or another acceptable form of ID such as a U.S. passport, TSA said in a previous statement.
Can I fly without a REAL ID?
If you have another form of identification approved by TSA, you can travel without a REAL ID. As of December 1, TSA accepts the following forms of identification, but the list is subject to change in the future.
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state photo ID issued by the DMV or state equivalent
- State-issued enhanced driver’s license or enhanced ID
- US passport or passport card
- Homeland Security-trusted traveler cards (such as Global Entry)
- permanent resident card
- border crossing card
- Photo ID issued by a federally recognized tribal nation/Indian tribe
- U.S. Department of Defense ID (including those issued to dependents)
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- US Merchant Mariner Certification
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Transportation Worker Identification Certificate (TWIC)
- HSPD-12 PIV Card
- Passport card issued by a foreign government
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
So, if you haven’t obtained a REAL ID-compliant ID or document from the list above since its introduction earlier this year, you can expect to pay $45 to board a flight after February 1st.
How do I get a REAL ID?
According to usa.gov, travelers can receive a REAL ID when applying for or renewing a driver’s license or state identification card. During the application process, you can choose whether to make your new ID REAL ID compliant (indicated by a star icon).
To obtain a REAL ID, most driver licensing agencies will ask you to bring several items and documents, including proof of:
- identity – If you are not a U.S. citizen, this includes a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or permanent resident card (green card).
- social security number – Travelers can prove this by bringing their Social Security card, Form W-2, or pay stub or pay check from their employer.
- place of residence – According to usa.gov, your state agency may request a deed, mortgage statement, rental agreement, utility bill, or bank statement to prove your residency.
How can I find out if I already have a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is designated by a symbol (most commonly a colored circle with a white star) in the upper right corner of your driver’s license or state ID.
Some states, like California, have stars placed inside the bear’s outline along with the stars.
The TSA website does not specify what documents are considered non-compliant, but reiterates that the documents listed above and those marked with special symbols are “acceptable” and comply with the new rules. Travelers whose documentation is deemed non-compliant will be assessed a $45 fee.
Kate Perez covers trends and breaking news for USA TODAY. You can reach her at kperez@usatodayco.com or on Twitter @katecperez_.
