Beginning May 7, 2025, new federal rules will come into force requiring travelers aged 18 and over to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification for certain activities. From this date, a REAL ID will be mandatory to board domestic commercial flights within the United States and to access secure federal facilities, such as federal courthouses, military bases and nuclear power plants.
The new requirement applies specifically to domestic air travel; international flights will continue to require a valid passport as usual, and international travelers will also still need their passports to enter the US.
New rules from May 7, 2025
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, sets federal standards for the issuance of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Under the Act, starting May 7, 2025, these standards will be enforced at airport security checkpoints and federal facilities.
A REAL ID-compliant card is typically marked with a star in the upper right corner.
Individuals without a REAL ID-compliant license must present an alternative acceptable document, such as a valid US passport, DHS Trusted Traveler card or US military ID.
Travelers who fail to present a compliant form of identification will not be permitted to pass through TSA security checkpoints or enter restricted federal facilities.
How to obtain a REAL ID
To acquire a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, you must visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person and provide the following documentation:
- Proof of Identity: e.g., a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate.
- Proof of Social Security Number: e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub with full SSN.
- Two Proofs of Residency: e.g., utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements.
Processing times vary by state, and some DMVs are experiencing high demand leading up to the deadline. It’s advisable to schedule an appointment well in advance.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, the following documents are acceptable for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities:
| Document Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| US Passport | Valid for all domestic and international travel |
| US Passport Card | Valid for domestic air travel and land/sea crossings to certain countries |
| DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) | Issued to pre-approved, low-risk travelers |
| US Military ID (active duty or retired) | Includes IDs issued to dependents |
| Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) | Issued to lawful permanent residents |
| Border Crossing Card | Issued to Mexican nationals for entry into the U.S. |
| Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) | Available in select states; denotes U.S. citizenship |
| Federally Recognized Tribal-Issued Photo ID | Includes Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs) |
| Foreign Government-Issued Passport | Must be valid and unexpired |
Final Tips
Ahead of traveling under the new rules, take action to ensure you are compliant:
- Check Your ID: Look for a star in the upper right corner of your driver’s license or state ID to confirm REAL ID compliance.
- Plan Ahead: Due to increased demand, DMV appointments may be limited. Schedule your visit as early as possible.
- Alternative IDs: If you possess a valid U.S. passport or other acceptable identification, you may use it in lieu of a REAL ID-compliant license.
Need assistance?
For specialist guidance, speak to our US immigration attorneys.
Author
Founder & Principal Attorney Nita Nicole Upadhye is a recognized leader in the field of US business immigration law, (The Legal 500, Chambers & Partners, Who's Who Legal and AILA) and an experienced and trusted advisor to large multinational corporates through to SMEs. She provides strategic immigration advice and specialist application support to corporations and professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, artists, actors and athletes from across the globe to meet their US-bound talent mobility needs.
Nita is an active public speaker, thought leader, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals.
