You have less than a month to get a Real ID
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
A Real ID sign at a TSA checkpoint. Photo: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
You have under a month to obtain a Real ID before it's required for domestic flights and access to some federal facilities like courthouses and military bases — but if you're a D.C. or Maryland resident, chances are you're on it.
Why it matters: Maryland and the District have some of the highest Real ID-compliant rates in the country — 99% of eligible residents in both jurisdictions.
Virginia, you're on notice: The state's department of motor vehicles tells Axios they've issued more than 4 million Real IDs to date, which accounts for only 59% of all active licenses and IDs.
- That lower adoption rate could cause headaches for Virginia travelers this spring.
State of play: After the May 7 deadline, airports will require the new ID for domestic travel — yes, even a quick shuttle to JFK. If you don't have a Real ID, a current U.S. passport or other federally recognized ID will work.
- Children under 18 don't need to show ID when traveling within the country.
- Unexpired driver's licenses and state IDs will still be valid for driving, voting and accessing benefits, but they won't work for flights after the deadline.
How it works: Requirements for proof of identity and residency, as well as fees, vary by jurisdiction.
- In Virginia, you'll need to complete an application — starting online is faster — and then visit one of the state's 76 customer service centers with the required documents and $10 fee.
- Documents include proof of identity and legal presence, primary and secondary forms of Virginia residency, and your social security number (all documents must be original and not photocopies).
- Appointments can be made online for ID card services, and the DMV accepts walk-ins. Appointments may be harder to find as the deadline approaches, but NoVa stations are currently showing plenty of availability.
Maryland transportation officials credit a smooth system with their state's success. Residents wanting to be doubly sure they're compliant can check their status online.
Flashback: If you feel like you've been hearing about Real IDs for a long time, you're right! 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's enforcement was delayed many times, but compliance efforts have been underway for years — if you haven't dealt with your ID in the last decade-plus, now's the time to be done with it.