Thinking about a trip next summer? You’ll need to have a Real ID marked identification to catch your flight.

The Department of Homeland Security announced a specific deadline for Real IDs back in May, advising travelers who plan to fly domestically in 2025 and beyond to ensure that their state-issued IDs or driver’s licenses carry the Real ID emblem.

Although there are still eight months until the Real ID cutoff, it’s wise to visit your local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure you’re ready to travel without hassle by the May 7, 2025 deadline.

If your state-issued ID lacks the federal seal, it does not meet the “minimum security standards” outlined in The Real ID Act of 2005, which will bar you from federal facilities and domestic flights.

This law was initially set to launch in 2020, but due to “backlogged transactions” at DMV offices nationwide caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the effective date was moved to May 2025, as reported by YSL News.

According to DHS, the backlog hampered agencies’ readiness to implement Real ID, but this time, the deadline is firmly in place.

This means that federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will not accept non-Real ID compliant driver’s licenses or identification cards, as stated by DHS.

Here’s what you should know.

When will Real ID become mandatory?

Starting May 7, 2025, any traveler aged 18 and older without an alternate TSA-approved identification will need a Real ID compliant card or driver’s license to fly domestically. If you already possess another TSA-approved form of ID, you likely won’t need a Real ID.

Some other TSA-approved options include:

• State-issued enhanced driver’s license
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• The U.S. Department of Defense ID, including that issued to dependents
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID from a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

How can I get a Real ID?

To get a Real ID driver’s license or identification card, visit your local MVD or DMV. Expect to receive your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License within about two weeks (15 business days) from your state’s Motor Vehicle Department.

Each Real ID will be marked in the upper right corner to indicate its compliance with federal regulations. The specific emblem on your Real ID will differ based on the state from which you obtain it.

Enhanced IDs, available in select states like Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont, are also recognized as valid alternatives to Real ID-compliant cards by DHS.

What documentation is needed for Real ID?

You’ll need to check your state’s driver’s licensing agency website for specific documentation requirements to obtain a Real ID, as outlined by DHS.

Generally, you should have the following documentation ready:

To apply, you will need to provide the following information:

• Your complete legal name
• Your date of birth
• Your Social Security number
• Documentation proving your primary residence
• Proof of legal status

Additional requirements may be set by individual states as indicated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).