Are You REAL ID Ready?
Are you planning to travel domestically (that is anywhere in the US) after May 7, 2025? Then this article is for you! In 2005 (yeah, 19 years ago), the REAL ID Act was passed by Congress after the publication of the 9/11 Commission report. This urged state governments to step up efforts to produce secure identification cards that would be more difficult to forge or alter. These new, enhanced IDs are meant to cover access to certain federal facilities, entering nuclear powerplants, AND, for the purposes of today’s conversation – to board federally regulated commercial aircraft.
Now, why does this matter?
Well, beginning May 7, 2025, this regulation is set to go into effect. Meaning, if you (i.e. anyone 18 years of age or older) don’t have a REAL ID state identification or a federally-issued ID like a passport, and you have trip plans that include flying on an airplane anywhere in the US, you won’t be able to board!
Here’s what you need to know. First, if you have a valid US Passport or Passport card, you DON’T need a REAL ID. Otherwise, YES, you DO need a REAL ID.
So, how do you know if you have a REAL ID? Look at your driver’s license or state ID and look for the star or other identifier in the upper right corner that signifies a REAL ID. Here are a couple of examples:
If it’s there – you’re set! If not, you likely have an ID that says “federal limits apply” or “not for federal ID” or some other disclaimer on it. If that is the case, then you will not be able to use that identification to board an aircraft. Here are a few examples:
Every state is handling the rollout of REAL ID differently, but generally speaking, if you find you don’t have one YET, it’s time to make that appointment to get one. Here’s an example of what you’ll need to do:
- Visit your state’s Secretary of State Office or DMV, get your photo and take any required exams.
- Have proof of identity (for example a birth certificate, US passport, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card or a foreign passport with an approved I-94 form). Keep in mind that name change documents, like a certified copy of a marriage certificate, etc., will be required if the applicant presents a birth certificate with a name different from his/her name. And if your name has changed multiple times, you’ll need multiple name change documents to prove this.
- You must provide proof of a full social security number with a SSN card, a W2, or a pay stub with a full SSN.
- You must provide 2 residency documents with your name (examples include a utility bill, rental agreement, deed/title, or a bank statement. Account numbers must be visible).
- Must provide proof of signature (examples are a credit/debit card, canceled check or current state ID/DL.
- Upon providing this information, you’ll likely receive a temporary, secure paper DL or ID at the facility. Note that the TSA and federal agencies will NOT accept this paper ID, so you cannot use it to board a flight.
- After review and verification of documents have been conducted, you will receive your permanent REAL ID in the mail within 15 days.
It sounds intense – and it kind of is. That’s why it’s something you should look at now because as the deadline gets closer, you run the risk of not being able to take your trip post May 2025 until it’s done. While the federal government has extended the deadline in the past, it doesn’t seem like that will be the case for this final deadline.
If you have additional questions about the process in your state, check out https://www.dhs.gov/real-id which allows you to click on your specific state for instructions on how to get your REAL ID.
Magical Memories by Casey 