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By Theo Burman
Live News Reporter
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The Real ID Act is set to take effect on May 7, marking a major change for domestic air travelers across the United States.
Why It Matters
Travelers without a Real ID-compliant driver's license will need to present another TSA-approved form of identification, such as a passport, military ID or DHS-trusted traveler card, to board a domestic flight.
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Additionally, Real ID will be required for entry into federal buildings and some military bases.
What To Know
Under the new regulations, standard driver's licenses will no longer be sufficient for boarding domestic flights or accessing federal facilities. Instead, travelers aged 18 and older will need a Real ID-compliant license or another form of federally approved identification, such as a passport.
The Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005, aims to enhance security measures by establishing a standardized form of identification across all 50 states.
The law was initially set to take effect in 2007 but faced multiple delays. The Department of Homeland Security said that May 2025 will be the firm enforcement date, though a proposal to extend the deadline to 2027 is under discussion.
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Requirements to obtain a Real ID-compliant license vary slightly by state, but usually, you'll be asked to provide:
- Proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or legal residency (e.g., birth certificate, U.S. passport, or permanent resident card)
- Proof of your Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card or W-2 form)
- Two documents proving your current address (e.g., utility bills, lease agreement, or bank statement)
What People Are Saying
The Department of Homeland Security, in a statement on its website: "Beginning May 7, 2025, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID, or another acceptable form of identification, for accessing federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and boarding commercial aircraft.
"The card, itself, must be REAL ID compliant unless the resident is using an alternative acceptable document such as a passport or passport card, or state-issued Enhanced Driver's License.
"The Act does not require individuals to present identification where it is not currently required to access a federal facility (such as to enter the public areas of the Smithsonian) nor does it prohibit an agency from accepting other forms of identity documents (such as a U.S. passport or passport card)."
What Happens Next
If your current license is not Real ID-compliant, you'll need to visit your state's driver's license agency to apply.
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