The One-Year Countdown to Get a Real ID Is Officially On
Americans are procrastinators, but you only have a year to get this enhanced form of identification.
After several deadline extensions, the Department of Homeland Security is sticking to a date for when Americans need to switch to the Real ID—and that deadline is now less than 365 days away.
The previous deadline was on May 3, 2023. But after COVID caused mass delays and bureaucratic backlogs, DHS pushed the deadline back to give government offices and citizens time to get through processing so much paperwork. Now, the Real ID deadline of May 7, 2025 is being held firm by DHS—there's even a countdown clock ticking down the days on the Real ID website.
What is Real ID?
The new form of ID is billed as more secure, requiring more official forms of documentation. So, now, all of us procrastinators will have less than a year to update our identification and meet the new standard—which will be required for domestic flights and to enter certain federal facilities. The US government defines Real ID as: "The REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for
license issuance and production."
The requirement for Americans to be issued Real IDs is law, after the act was passed in 2005.
How can I get a Real ID?
According to DHS, you'll need "to visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID." Additionally,
"DHS continues to work closely with US states, the District of Columbia, and the US territories to meet REAL ID requirements,"
Be prepared to have documents showing your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of your primary address, and lawful status. Some agencies may require additional information beyond these five forms of documentation. The DHS Real ID homepage has a map of the US that you can search to find the specific application requirements for each state.
What does a Real ID look like?
Real IDs will be issued in all 50 states, Washington DC, and all five US territories. The IDs will all have a symbol in the top right-hand corner of the ID or driver's license. This shape will be either a yellow or black star—with the exception of the state of California, which will have a star-shaped cutout in a bear-shaped marking.
Will you be able to fly without Real ID after the deadline?
No. After May 7, 2025, if you are an adult without a Real ID, you will not be permitted past the airport TSA checkpoints.
Do you still need a passport if you have Real ID?
Yes, for international travel. You will be able to use either your Real ID or a valid passport for domestic travel. A Real ID will not be sufficient for international travel, including border crossings to Mexico and Canada. You will need to have a valid passport for international travel.
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