Real ID deadline is May 7: What Arizonans need to know
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Real ID is finally rolling out this year after decades of delays. Photo: Carrie Shepherd/Axios
After a series of delays, the TSA says you really have to get your Real ID by May 7.
Why it matters: As of that date, Real IDs or valid passports will be required for domestic travel and entry into certain government facilities.
Catch up quick: Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005 after the 9/11 Commission recommended that the federal government should have one standard source of identification, rather than accepting state driver's licenses, which have state-specific requirements.
- The Real ID adoption date has been delayed numerous times — the initial deadline was in 2008.
- The feds have blamed low compliance rates, state pushback and pandemic-induced administrative hurdles for the decades of delays.
The latest: You'll need a Real ID as of May 7 to:
- Travel on a plane in the U.S. (and don't have a valid passport)
- Visit a military base
- Visit a secure federal building like a courthouse
You won't need a Real ID, only a driver's license, to:
- Drive
- Vote
- Open a bank account
- Apply for or receive Veterans' or Social Security benefits
- Enter a post office
- Visit a hospital
Zoom in: Arizona's version of Real ID is called the Arizona Travel ID. It's available as either a driver's license or state ID card.
- They're distinguishable as Real IDs by a black or gold star on the upper-righthand corner.
- Arizona Department of Transportation spokesperson Bill Lamoreaux said the department has issued almost 2.5 million Travel IDs since they first became available in 2016, and has seen increased interest in the past few months.
How it works: You'll need to go into a Motor Vehicle Division office to upgrade your ID. You can walk in (the average wait time is 12 minutes, per ADOT) or make an appointment.
- The Travel ID requires more identification than a typical driver's license. Use ADOT's document guide to make sure you have the correct items.
- The new ID is $25.
Jessica's pro tip: I know everyone dreads an MVD line, but the ability to schedule an appointment has really changed the game.
- I got my Real ID while changing my last name — a much more burdensome process than for most people who will just need to upgrade to the new card — and I was still in and out in less than 30 minutes.