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2w ago

Final Push for Real ID Compliance as May 7 Deadline Nears

U.S. residents must secure a Real ID or acceptable alternative for domestic travel and federal facility access, with state DMVs facing high demand.

NY DMV
Passengers stand in line at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, U.S., January 31, 2025. REUTERS/Jeenah Moon/File Photo
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US citizens must make sure they have a driver's license or identification card that complies with Real ID by May 7, 2025, the federal Real ID deadline, in order to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities.

Overview

  • The federal Real ID deadline is set for May 7, 2025, with no further extensions expected after years of delays.
  • Travelers without a Real ID can use alternatives such as Enhanced Driver's Licenses, passports, or DHS Trusted Traveler cards to board domestic flights.
  • Applicants must provide original or certified documents, including proof of identity, Social Security number, residency, and name change documentation if applicable.
  • Enhanced Driver's Licenses issued by five states—Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont—are recognized as compliant alternatives to Real IDs.
  • State DMVs are experiencing heavy demand, and residents are encouraged to schedule appointments online to ensure timely processing before the deadline.