The deadline for most U.S. residents to obtain a REAL ID or acceptable alternative for domestic air travel is May 7. After this date, standard state-issued driver's licenses or identification cards will not be sufficient for boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.
The REAL ID requirement stems from the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005. The legislation enacted a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission to establish security standards for state-issued identification documents. Federal authorities state the program improves the accuracy and reliability of identification, aiding efforts to inhibit individuals from using fraudulent documents to evade detection.
Besides domestic flights, a REAL ID or approved alternative will also be required to access certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants.
Travelers can determine if their current state-issued card is REAL ID-compliant by looking for a star symbol typically located in the upper corner. Some states issue "enhanced" ID cards, recognizable by an American flag icon, which are also accepted for domestic air travel and certain land and sea border crossings.
Individuals without a REAL ID by the deadline must present another approved form of identification to fly domestically. Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, a permanent resident card, or other documents listed by the Transportation Security Administration. Failure to present compliant identification could result in delays, additional screening, or being denied access to security checkpoints.
The path to obtaining a REAL ID involves visiting a state driver's licensing agency, such as a DMV. Requirements vary by state, but generally include providing multiple documents proving identity, lawful status, and residency. State agencies advise checking their websites for specific procedures and required documentation to avoid repeated visits.
Officials in states like Oregon report a surge in residents seeking compliant cards as the REAL ID deadline nears. Appointments have become scarce, and walk-in wait times are long. Chris Crabb, a spokesperson for the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services, noted the high demand.
The deadline has faced multiple postponements since the program's initial rollout plan in 2008 due to state implementation challenges and public health events. However, federal authorities have stated there are no plans for further delays. As of late April, authorities reported 81 percent of travelers at security checkpoints presented acceptable identification.
Certain states issue Enhanced Driver's Licenses or IDs that serve as alternatives. These are available in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington. Children under 18 do not require a REAL ID for domestic air travel.
For individuals who do not plan to fly domestically or access facilities requiring the enhanced identification, getting a REAL ID may not be immediately necessary.
