Overview

• The May 7, 2025 deadline marks the start of strict enforcement of the Real ID Act, requiring compliant identification for domestic air travel and federal facility entry.
• Travelers without Real ID-compliant identification may face delays, additional screening, or denial of access at TSA checkpoints.
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) issued by five states—New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Washington, and Vermont—are accepted as alternatives to Real IDs.
• State DMVs are overwhelmed by high demand, with extended hours and special centers set up to accommodate last-minute applicants.
• Federal authorities emphasize that Real IDs are not part of a national database, as states maintain control over records and issuance.