Starting on May 7, 2025, new identification rules will take effect for domestic travel in the U.S., and I want to make sure you’re ready! (Even though it seems like a long time away, May will be here before we know it!) Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a special trip, here’s the scoop on the REAL ID, what it is, and how to get one.
What exactly is a REAL ID?
The purpose of the REAL ID Act was to boost security standards for state-issued IDs like driver's licenses. Think of a REAL ID as a supercharged version of your regular license—it's your ticket for hassle-free travel on domestic flights, access to certain federal facilities (like military bases), and even entry to nuclear power plants (you know, if that’s your thing!).
Heads up: A REAL ID will NOT replace your passport for international trips. You’ll still need your passport to travel abroad.
What do you need to get a REAL ID?
To get a REAL ID, you’ll need to bring some documents with you to your state’s licensing agency (usually the DMV). Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started:
1. Proof of identity: This could be a birth certificate or passport.
2. Social Security number: You have a few options here: your Social Security card, a W-2, or a pay stub showing the full number.
3. Proof of residency: You’ll need two documents that show your current address, such as utility bills or bank statements.
4. Proof of legal presence in the U.S.: For non-citizens, immigration documents are needed.
Make sure to double-check your state’s requirements, as they can vary a bit from place to place.
How to get your REAL ID – It’s easier than you think!
Ready to make it happen? Follow these steps to get your REAL ID sorted:
1. Head to your local DMV (or wherever your state handles driver’s licenses).
2. Bring along the documents listed above.
3. Complete your application and pay any fees. (Each state sets its own fees.)
Pro tip: Schedule an appointment to skip the line and save time. Some states let you start the process online by uploading your documents ahead of time—easy peasy!
How can you tell if your ID is already a REAL ID?
If you’ve renewed your driver’s license fairly recently, you may already have a REAL ID. The easiest way to spot a REAL ID is by looking for a star in the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID. The star might be gold or black, depending on the state.
Here are some special cases:
California licenses have a grizzly bear and star.
Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and New York offer both REAL IDs and enhanced driver's licenses, which also work for domestic travel.
In Washington state, all you’ll find are enhanced driver’s licenses, which count as REAL ID-compliant even without a star.
If your license says “Federal Limits Apply" or something similar, it’s not REAL ID-compliant.
Still not sure? You can always double-check with your state’s DMV to be absolutely certain.
Just in case you don’t have one…
If you’re flying domestically starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, or you can use one of these:
U.S. passports or passport cards
DHS trusted traveler cards (like Global Entry or NEXUS)
U.S. military IDs
Basically, as long as it’s on the TSA’s list, you’re good to go!
A few more things to keep in mind
A REAL ID is not mandatory right now, but just remember you won’t be able to use a regular license to fly domestically after the deadline.
If you forget your REAL ID, TSA can still verify your identity using other methods, but it will take extra time.
Kids under 18 don’t need an ID to fly domestically if they’re with an adult who has the proper ID.
Plan ahead
The sooner you apply, the better. DMVs will probably get crowded as we get closer to May 2025, so save yourself some stress and take care of it early. Plus, who doesn’t love crossing things off their to-do list?
If you’ve got travel plans on the horizon, taking a little time to get your REAL ID will make things much smoother. Now that you know the ins and outs, you can breeze through the process and keep your travel plans on track.
So go ahead—get your documents together and make sure you’re ready to fly! Let me know if you have any more questions! ✈️
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