Real ID deadline looms as DHS confirms final deadline for travelers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that there will be no further extensions for the implementation of the Real ID Act. Starting May 7, 2025, American travelers will need a Real ID to board domestic flights, access military bases, and enter high-security federal facilities, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

This measure is part of the Real ID Act, enacted by Congress in 2005 to enhance security in the issuance of state identifications. The implementation of this law has faced multiple delays, with the last extension granted in 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, DHS has confirmed that the deadline of May 7, 2025, is final, with no additional extensions planned.

Currently, millions of Americans have not updated their driver’s licenses or state IDs to the new Real ID standard. This has prompted states to ramp up informational campaigns and streamline processes to prevent a backlog as the deadline approaches. To obtain a Real ID, applicants must visit a designated driving license center or an authorized tax collector’s office in person.

The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) recommends scheduling appointments through its official website to avoid long waiting times. Applicants need to present specific documents, such as a passport, birth certificate, and proof of state residency. Non-citizens must provide additional documentation as per TSA guidelines.

Florida began issuing Real IDs in 2010, yet the impending deadline has led to a surge in demand for these documents. According to FLHSMV, thousands of residents have sought to update their identifications in recent months. California, Texas, and New York have also reported significant increases in applications, as seen in data from their respective transportation agencies.

DHS warns that after May 7, those without a Real ID will need to present a passport or other TSA-approved identification to travel domestically. A standard driver’s license will not suffice. The main distinction between a standard license and a Real ID is the presence of a gold or black star in the upper right corner, indicating compliance with federal security standards.

In Florida, the authorities have clarified that individuals may hold either a Real ID driver’s license or a Real ID identification card, but not both simultaneously. If a person possesses both, they must decide which one to retain during their next renewal. A standard license does not grant access to restricted federal facilities and cannot be used for domestic flights.

DHS also confirmed that other forms of identification will continue to be accepted, such as passports and permanent resident cards. However, the agency urges citizens to complete their applications as soon as possible to avoid travel disruptions.

The cost of obtaining a Real ID varies by state. In Florida, the standard fee is $25, similar to renewing a driver’s license. California’s Department of Motor Vehicles charges $36 for a Real ID and $31 for a Real ID identification card. Applicants should check specific costs and requirements on their state’s transportation agency website.

Some states have established assistance programs for low-income residents needing to update their identification. Authorities estimate that millions of people still need to transition to a Real ID, which could cause delays in document processing as the deadline nears. TSA advises those without a Real ID to plan alternatives to avoid travel inconveniences.

According to DHS data, over 60% of adults in the U.S. have updated their licenses or identification cards, but a significant portion of the population has yet to complete the process.