If you do not have a Real ID license by the 7th of May, you can board your flight using a U.S. Passport or Global Entry Card. If you don’t have a Real ID driver’s license by May 7, you can use a U.S. passport or Global Entry card to board your flight. The TSA said Travel + LeisureThose older than 18 without a REAL ID compliant credential could face delays, and in rare cases, if a passenger’s identity can’t be verified, their entry into the secure part of the airport may be denied.
A major change will impact all U.S. airline travelers.
In less than a week, the TSA is expected to require that all passengers be screened by a Real ID For example, to pass through airport security and visit federal buildings. Travelers who wish to use their driver’s licence or state ID card to board domestic flights will need one that is up-to-date to meet the new requirement.
A traveler who shows up to the airport without an identification card that is Real ID compliant may not be allowed to fly, unless they possess a United States passport or another document. approved identification cards Such as a Global Entry Card, or Military ID.
When applying for a Real ID license, applicants must provide additional documentation, such as a valid U.S. Passport or proof of citizenship. Real ID licenses have extra security features to make it harder to fake. Kristi Noem, United States Secretary for Homeland Security said that these IDs are important to keep the country safe because they help prevent fraud and enhance security. social media video.
Many state license bureaus have reached their maximum capacity, and are unable to accept any additional appointments for a Real ID license. Travelers in other areas who are in need of an appointment at the last minute may find it helpful to look for a nearby city or neighborhood. For example, those in the New York City region could drive to Albany District Office, New York where appointments are available as early as June 2025.
TSA spokesperson said in a press release that they encourage passengers who don’t have a REAL ID from their state, or an acceptable form ID to allow plenty of time at TSA checkpoints for extra screening. Travel + Leisure. “Those who are over 18 and do not have a REAL ID that is compliant may experience delays. In rare cases, passengers whose identity cannot be confirmed may be refused entry to the secure area at the airport.”
T+L provides answers to some frequently asked questions about Real ID.
Do you require a Real ID card to fly in the United States of America?
Yes, in order to pass a TSA Security Checkpoint by May 7, 2025 or later, the ID card of a traveler must have Real ID status.
What happens if I need to fly and don’t have my Real ID?
Even for domestic flights, the traveler may use a United States’ passport, U.S. passport or Global Entry card instead of Real ID. Real ID is compatible with 18 different types of federally-issued ID. See the full list of accepted IDs On the TSA website.
TSA officers could also provide an alternate form of identity verification on site for passengers who do not have a Real ID or other forms of identification that comply with the Real ID standard. This option is not available to everyone, but it’s possible.
On its website, the TSA explains: “The TSA Officer may ask you complete an identification verification process that includes collecting information such your name and your current address to verify your identity.” “If your identity is verified, you will be permitted to enter the checkpoint screening, where you could be subjected to additional screening.”
The TSA has stated that passengers won’t be allowed to enter the checkpoint if they don’t have identification or their identity cannot be confirmed.
They will have to cancel their flights until they can obtain the necessary identification.
How can I tell if I am using a Real ID card?
Check with the issuing agency to find out what markings are on your Real ID license. The upper right corner of most Real ID licenses will have one or more of the following symbols: a golden star, black star, star cutout within a circle in gold, star cutout within a circle in black, star cutout inside a bear in gold.
Travelers can use their passport in place of the Real ID Driver’s License, even for domestic flights.
