Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. Residents Will Need REAL ID or Passport for Commercial Flights
Beginning May 7, 2025, residents of the United States will be required to present a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport, to board commercial flights. The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, aims to enhance security standards for state-issued identifications. This new requirement is part of the law’s phase-in process and will affect activities such as accessing federal installations, entering nuclear plants, and traveling by air.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), REAL ID-compliant cards must display a star-shaped emblem on the top. This change stemmed from a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission, which advised the federal government to establish standards for identification documents like driver’s licenses.
All states, territories, and the District of Columbia currently meet REAL ID standards, issuing compliant identifications. Both standard and enhanced driver’s licenses (EDL) are acceptable. However, passengers without a REAL ID or an alternative acceptable document will not be allowed through airport security checkpoints after the deadline.
To obtain a REAL ID, applicants must provide additional documents confirming their identity, date of birth, Social Security number, proof of current address, and legal immigration status. A W-2 form, SSA-1099, or pay stub with the Social Security number can substitute for a Social Security card. Applicants should also check their state’s agency websites for potential additional requirements.
The REAL ID Act provides for temporary or short-term licenses in specific cases, such as those with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), or individuals from the Freely Associated States (Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands). For instance, TPS holders can obtain a REAL ID-compliant card valid for their authorized stay period or up to one year if there’s no definite end date.
Technically, the REAL ID Act does not establish a centralized federal database with citizen information; each state maintains its records and controls access. The law does not mandate a REAL ID for everyday activities like voting, driving, opening bank accounts, or handling work-related tasks. However, individuals may find REAL IDs convenient for these purposes.
Certain challenges remain in implementing the REAL ID Act, such as delays at local vehicle offices due to unclear guidelines on accepting documents from temporary residents. Applicants renewing licenses must provide consistent information, excluding updates to addresses. Recently, an exception was made for Afghan parolees admitted under the Operation Allies Refuge program. They can obtain temporary REAL IDs by presenting an I-766 document, along with address and Social Security number verification through the SAVE system.
In conclusion, the REAL ID Act aims to bolster national security by strengthening personal identification standards. With the deadline extended to 2025, both citizens and those in special legal situations have ample time to adapt to the new regulations with minimal bureaucratic hurdles.
