Janice R. Andrews
To board domestic aircraft in the United States, visitors will require either a passport or a Real ID beginning of May 7, 2025. The COVID-19 outbreak caused a delay in the implementation of this new rule, which would tighten security for access to federal installations and air travel. Here is all the information you want regarding the Real ID, including instructions on how to get one.
Real ID: What Is It?
The Real ID Act, which was approved by Congress in 2005, established strict security requirements for upgraded forms of identity, which are met by the Real ID. In an effort to stop identity theft and raise the credibility of identification credentials provided by the state, the Real ID Act was introduced. Real IDs will be needed starting in May 2025 to enter some federal buildings and nuclear power plants in addition to boarding commercial flights.
Who Requires a Valid ID?
In order to get past airport security, every American citizen or foreign visitor who is 18 years of age or older and intends to travel domestically must have a valid form of identification, such as a passport. TSA employees will not let travelers to board their planes if they do not have a valid ID. Real IDs will be needed not just to fly but also to enter several federal institutions and military locations.
Enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs) that also satisfy Real ID requirements are available in several states, including Vermont, Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Michigan. For the same uses, a Real ID can be substituted with one of these EDLs, which have a marking of the US flag.
How to Determine Whether You Already Own a Valid ID
Your driver’s license could already be a Real ID-compliant card if you renewed it lately. It’s simple to verify if your license has a star in the upper right corner. You are eligible for the May 2025 deadline if your license contains this star. In the event that it doesn’t, or if your card has an American flag on it, signifying an EDL, you must get a Real ID before the deadline.
Obtaining a Legitimate ID
You must visit the driver’s license office in your state, such as the DMV, and provide certain paperwork in order to receive a Real ID. State-specific requirements may differ significantly, but generally speaking, you’ll need the following:
- Proof of identity: This can be a legitimate birth certificate, passport, or other document that attests to your identity and dates of birth.
- Verification of Social Security Number: A tax form, your Social Security card, or a pay stub including your SSN should work.
- Proof of residency: Utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements are examples of two papers that attest to your residence.
It is advised to schedule an appointment in advance for your visit to the DMV or licensing authority, as many agencies need time to process Real IDs. State-specific guidelines on the application process and required paperwork can be found on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website.
The Price of a Genuine ID
Getting a Real ID doesn’t cost more, however there are typical DMV processing costs that vary by state. An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) normally costs around $30 if you choose to obtain one.
Final Thoughts
Travelers must get ready and make sure they have a Real ID or other acceptable identification for domestic air travel as the May 2025 deadline draws near. Although the procedure is simple, it must be followed precisely in order to satisfy all state-specific regulations. Instead of waiting until the last minute, begin compiling your paperwork and make an appointment to get your Real ID right now.
