REAL ID Deadline Approaches, Travelers Must Prepare by May 7

HOUSTON, Texas — A major change in travel requirements will take effect in just a few weeks, impacting airline passengers across the United States. Starting May 7, state-issued ID cards, including driver’s licenses, will no longer be accepted for federal purposes unless they are compliant with the REAL ID standards established after the September 11 attacks.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that all domestic travelers ages 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to pass through airport security. This requirement also includes updates for international travel, where a passport will still be necessary.

“Everybody is responsible for presenting the proper travel documents when they come to the checkpoint,” said TSA spokesperson Patricia Mancha. “The deadline is fast approaching, and travelers should ensure they are prepared to avoid potential delays.”

REAL IDs feature a star, gold or black, in the upper right corner of the license, which indicates that it meets federal security standards. In Texas, for example, the compliant card displays a gold star, while other states may have different symbols, including a bear in California.

Those who received a new driver’s license or state identification in recent years may already possess a REAL ID. However, travelers are encouraged to verify their eligibility for a REAL ID online. If individuals do not have a compliant ID by the deadline, they risk being denied boarding or facing delays at security.

“There’s going to be a phased approach of enforcement, but people may experience travel delays,” Mancha stated. Although there is currently no definitive plan detailing how enforcement will be implemented, officials suggest obtaining a REAL ID as soon as possible.

The REAL ID Act was enacted in 2005, establishing minimum security standards for the issuance and production of identification cards following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The initial deadline for compliance was set for 2020 but has been postponed multiple times due to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the deadline approaching, concerns have surfaced regarding whether sufficient REAL IDs will be issued on time, especially with a surge of applicants expected before May 7. Regular, unexpired driver’s licenses will still be valid for non-federal purposes, but compliance with REAL ID regulations is essential for airline travel.

For travelers who may not qualify for a REAL ID in time, TSA-approved alternatives include valid U.S. passports, military IDs, or other federally accepted identification forms.

For more information regarding REAL ID requirements and how to obtain one, travelers are advised to visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles website or contact their state’s licensing agency.