Real ID: What Travelers Need to Know Before the May 7, 2025 Deadline
The countdown is on! In just over a month, a significant change will affect how you travel domestically by air. Beginning May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers will need to present a real ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights. As your trusted travel advisors at Avondale Travel, we want to ensure you're prepared for this important transition.
What is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The law prohibits federal agencies, including the TSA, from accepting identification that doesn’t meet these standards for certain activities, including boarding domestic flights.
How Will This Affect Your Travel Plans?
If you frequently travel within the United States, this change directly impacts you. After May 7, 2025, if you don’t have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative form of identification, you will not be able to pass through TSA security checkpoints or board domestic flights.
How to Identify a REAL ID
REAL-ID compliant licenses and identification cards are marked with a star in the upper right or left corner. The specific design may vary by state, but all REAL IDs feature this distinguishing star symbol.
Do You Need a REAL ID?
You need a REAL ID (or acceptable alternative) for:
Domestic air travel
Accessing certain federal buildings/DOD installations
Entering nuclear power plants
What if You Don’t Have a REAL ID by the Deadline?
If you don’t have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you can still fly domestically using alternative acceptable identification such as:
U.S. Passport or Passport Card
DHS Trusted Traveler Card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. Department of Defense ID
Enhanced Driver’s License
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
For international travel, you will still need your passport regardless of whether you have a real ID.
How to Get Your REAL ID
Visit your state’s DMV website: Each state has different requirements for obtaining a REAL ID. Check your state’s specific process at DHS.GOV/REAL-ID
Gather required documentation: Generally, you’ll need to provide documentation that establishes your:
Identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
Social Security Number
Current address (two proofs may be required)
Proof of name change, if applicable
Visit your local DMV office: Most states require an in-person visit to complete the REAL ID application process
Avondale Travel’s Tips for REAL ID Preparation
Don’t wait until the last minute: DMV offices may experience high volumes as the deadline approaches
Check your existing ID: You might already have a REAL ID-compliant license (look for the star!)
Consider getting or renewing your passport: A valid passport is an excellent alternative and gives you more flexibility for international travel opportunities
Contact us with questions: Our travel advisors at Avondale Travel are happy to answer any questions about how REAL ID might affect your upcoming travel plans
The Bottom Line
The REAL ID deadline of May 7, 2025, will be here before we know it. Taking steps now to ensure you have compliant identification will save you stress and potential travel disruptions later.
At Avondale Travel, we’re committed to helping our clients navigate travel requirements smoothly. If you have any questions about REAL ID or need assistance planning your next trip, don’t hesitate to contact our team of expert travel advisors.