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2w ago

REAL ID Enforcement Begins May 7, Prompting Last-Minute Rush

Travelers will need a REAL ID or other approved identification for domestic flights and federal building access starting next week.

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An employee checks people in at the New York State DMV on April 28, 2025 in New York City.

Overview

  • The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, will be fully enforced starting May 7, 2025, after multiple delays, including those caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Travelers without a REAL ID or an approved alternative, such as a passport or Enhanced Driver's License, may face delays, additional screening, or denial at TSA checkpoints.
  • States are experiencing a surge in applications, with DMV offices extending hours and adding appointments to meet the demand for REAL IDs.
  • National compliance stands at 81%, but rates vary widely by state, leaving millions of Americans potentially unprepared for the deadline.
  • REAL ID-compliant identification will also be required for vehicle access to federal sites like Arlington National Cemetery, though alternative forms of ID are accepted in some cases.