Real ID deadline is Wednesday, what to know before flying
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May 7 is the enforcement deadline for Real ID after years of delays. Photo: Kelly Tyko/Axios
Brace yourself if you're flying in the coming days and weeks for long lines and delays at the airport.
Why it matters: Wednesday, May 7 is the first day a Real ID compliant license — or another acceptable document — is needed to board a commercial aircraft in the U.S.
- The new identification requirement also applies when visiting military bases and secure federal buildings like courthouses.
What is Real ID?
A Real ID is a state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets federal security standards.
- Compliant IDs are typically marked with a star in the upper right corner, though the specific design may vary by state.
Real ID deadline date
May 7 is the enforcement deadline for Real ID after years of delays.
- "Secretary Noem and the Trump administration are enforcing the 2005 REAL ID Act and regulations on May 7, as directed by Congress and the American people," Adam Stahl, TSA senior official, said in an April news release.
- 81% of travelers at TSA checkpoints present an acceptable identification including a state-issued Real ID, according to TSA's statement.
Real ID Act of 2005 delays
Catch up quick: Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005 after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, seeking to beef up security surrounding IDs used at airports.
- The law was scheduled to be enforced in 2008 but has been delayed many times.
- All states were compliant for issuing Real IDs in 2020 but many states were in compliance earlier.
- In 2022, the enforcement deadline was extended to May 2025.
Real ID requirements, documents
State of play: Department of Homeland Security says at a minimum you must provide documentation that shows your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address of principal address and lawful status.
- Find your states' requirements and how to get a Real ID on this DHS page.
Passport, enhanced license are Real ID alternatives
Zoom in: There are other forms of acceptable identification to show at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.
- Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are also considered acceptable alternatives.
- U.S. passport or passport card and DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Permanent resident card
- Find the TSA's full list of acceptable identification here.
No Real ID or passport? Expect delays
What we're watching: TSA says if you don't have a Real ID or acceptable alternative it would be helpful to bring along "anything that can help us confirm your identity, such as your name and current address."
- "You may need to undergo identity verification and subject to additional screening," TSA said on a Reddit "Ask Me Anything" session.
- TSA recommends these passengers allow themselves an extra hour to pass through airport security.
- "Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (e.g., passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint," TSA said.
How will airports handle Real ID transition?
Reality check: TSA says because "all airports are different and have different layouts, we'll continue to conduct additional verification in a way that best works for each checkpoint and their space," the agency said on the Reddit AMA.
- "Be on the lookout for signage or TSA officers there helping and guiding passengers to the appropriate areas."
How to get DMV appointments for Real ID
How it works: Go to your state's driver's licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a Real ID.
- In some states, you can order a Real ID and others you'll need to make an appointment with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Between the lines: Federal and state officials have been urging people to upgrade their IDs in advance.
- The deadline's approach is causing panic in some states with long lines and high demand for appointments.
- The scramble to get appointments has also created a "perfect storm for cybercriminals to take advantage," Ian Bednowitz, LifeLock general manager, told Axios, noting "scammers are capitalizing on the confusion and urgency."
Can a temporary Real ID be used to fly?
Zoom in: "Temporary paper IDs aren't accepted at our security checkpoints," the TSA says, "so you should plan to bring another acceptable form of ID (such as a Passport or military ID) with you to the airport."
Can you get a Real ID after May 7?
The deadline isn't pressing for everyone. You only need a Real ID by May 7 if you're over 18, flying domestically soon and don't have a passport, or if you have to enter a military base or a secure federal building.
- Getting it after that date isn't a problem.
Free Krispy Kreme for Real ID deadline
Krispy Kreme is marking the Real ID deadline with a free doughnut giveaway, no ID or purchase required, the company announced in a news release.
- Get a free Original Glazed doughnut on May 7 in shop or via drive-thru at participating shops. Limit one per customer.
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