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REAL ID versus passport: which one do I need to travel?

You might’ve heard about REAL ID, which is a program that requires Americans to use specific types of identification enter airports, certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants. Since you’re probably curious about its travel implications, that’s what we’ll focus on here.

Beginning on May 7, 2025, all travelers flying on commercial aircraft will be required to present a REAL ID–compliant identity document. But does REAL ID replace a passport for international travel? No, it does not. Here’s everything you need to know about REAL IDs vs. passports.

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What is a REAL ID?

Why do you need a real id, is the application for a real id easier than for a passport, real id versus passport: which one do you need for domestic travel, does the real id replace the passport for international travel.

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” Because many forms of ID are issued by states rather than the federal government, they’re not all on the same page regarding security. The REAL ID Act aims to bring IDs used for high-security situations up to the same level on a national scale.

Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers flying on commercial aircraft will need a REAL ID–compliant identity document to go through airport security . Each state will issue its own REAL IDs, which will often be a special kind of driver’s license. But there are also non–driver’s license forms of REAL ID, too.

Expert tip : The rollout day for REAL ID has been postponed for more than a decade, so keep an eye on that launch date. It might change again.

There is no standard application for REAL IDs. It varies per state. Generally speaking, it’s fairly easy to get a REAL ID, and it usually will take less time to process than a passport. Most states’ processes include bringing various documents to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that prove your identity and residency in the state, then you will receive your ID in the mail. But if you are looking to get a REAL ID driver’s license, and you do not already have a driver’s license, that will take far more effort, as you will have to take a permit test and practice driving with a learner permit first. Passport applications require filing out paperwork, showing documents and going to a passport acceptance facility in-person.

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID–compliant form of identification to go through airport security for domestic flights/. Passports are accepted as an alternative to REAL IDs, so you can use one at airport security. 

Expert tip :There are many forms of REAL ID–compliant identification beyond a state-issued REAL ID. These include passports, passport cards, and Global Entry cards, among other documents. You can find the full list of accepted documents at tsa.gov .

No, you will not be able to use a REAL ID to travel internationally. You must have a passport or a passport card (depending on your destination) to travel internationally.

The passport is the ultimate form of ID for travel. It’s required for international flights , but it’s also accepted as a REAL ID alternative for domestic flights. That said, it’s not a bad idea to get a REAL ID, so you don’t need to use your passport for domestic travel. Instead, you can keep it safe at home.

REAL IDs will not be accepted for international travel, but they will be required for domestic air travel beginning May 7, 2025. A passport will be accepted as an alternative to a REAL ID, and it can be used for international travel.

How KAYAK knows what to put in this guide

As a travel writer, I must stay on top of all requirements regarding both domestic and international travel. For this guide, I researched the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policies for REAL ID on the government website, as well as looked into individual state policies on their DMV sites. I also consulted the U.S. Department of State website for information regarding passports and international travel.

REAL ID versus passport: Frequent questions

No, you cannot.

You can until May 7, 2025. Starting that day, you will need a REAL ID or a REAL ID alternative (like a passport) to fly in the US.

Yes, you can. Passports are accepted as an alternative to REAL IDs.

The foregoing article was last updated on the 27th of November 2023. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information. Sources: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification https://dmv.ny.gov/id-card/get-non-driver-id-card-ndid   https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/get-your-learner-permit-and-first-driver-license https://www.dhs.gov/real-id   https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-faqs https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/passports/forms-fees/Real%20ID%20Infographic_2022%20Update.pdf

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Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint

Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel.

• Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.  
• State-Issued Drivers License or State-Issued ID
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by 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)

In coordination with its DHS counterparts, TSA has identified acceptable alternate identification for use in special circumstances at the checkpoint.

A weapon permit is not an acceptable form of identification. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification.

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant . If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

Learn more about flying with a REAL ID .

TSA currently accepts expired ID up to a year after expiration, for the above listed forms of identification. DHS has extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline to May 7, 2025. Learn more about REAL ID on  TSA’s REAL ID  webpage.

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.

Forgot Your ID?

In the event you arrive at the airport without valid identification, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint. You will be subject to additional screening, to include a patdown and screening of carry-on property.

You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if your identity cannot be confirmed, you choose to not provide proper identification or you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process.

TSA recommends that you arrive at least two hours in advance of your flight time.

Names With Suffixes

TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation.

If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.

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Everything to Know About the REAL ID — Including How to Get One and When to Use It

Here's when you'll actually need to get a REAL ID.

Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images

You've probably seen the signage for REAL IDs all over the airport, but do you know what it actually is? As recommended by the 9/11 Commission, Congress passed the REAL ID Act to set security standards for forms of identification like driver's licenses back in 2005. The act ultimately requires anyone accessing certain federal facilities, boarding commercial aircraft, or entering nuclear power plants to use an ID that meets these standards. But as of today, the REAL ID Act hasn't been enforced . "The deadlines have been pushed out several times, with the current date of May 7, 2025," says Dr. Sheldon Jacobson, a professor of computer science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a research background in aviation security. Here's what you need to know about REAL IDs, especially as it relates to air travel.

What is a REAL ID and do I need one?

A REAL ID is a government-issued ID that meets federal security standards. Now, most "regular" state-issued driver's licenses do not meet these standards. That's why every state (plus Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories) has developed a new driver's license that's REAL ID–compliant — it'll have a star on the upper portion of the card. When the REAL ID Act becomes enforced, you will need to use a REAL ID–compliant form of identification at airport security . If you don't have one, you won't be permitted to enter the airport.

But do you absolutely need a REAL ID–compliant driver's license to get through airport security? The answer is no. There are other compliant forms of ID for those who don't have a driver's license. "You can use a passport, or other forms of ID that have a higher level of validation. A Global Entry card would also work," says Jacobson. Check out some of the options below, and find the full list of acceptable IDs on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website .

• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, Nexus, Sentri, Fast)
• Permanent resident card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized, Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport

It's also important to note a REAL ID will only be required of travelers 18 years and older. Children do not need an ID to fly, per the TSA.

Jeffrey Greenberg/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

When do I need to get a REAL ID?

At the time of publication, the enforcement date of the Real ID Act is May 7, 2025. But Jacobson believes the deadline might be further delayed. "The airlines cannot support any measure that may prohibit a ticketed passenger from flying. Congress will find some reason to delay its implementation once again," he says.

It's a reasonable suspicion — the act was originally supposed to go into effect in 2008. But it took states and territories years to get on board, with some states protesting the cost and others concerned about privacy issues. Only in December 2022 did all jurisdictions offer REAL IDs.

In the event the REAL ID Act does go into effect on May 7, 2025, it's best to get your enhanced driver's license sooner rather than later to avoid any potential backlogs as the date nears.

How do I get a REAL ID?

The process of acquiring a REAL ID–compliant driver's license varies per state — you should consult the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to learn more. It also depends on whether you're applying for a driver's license for the first time or upgrading an existing valid driver's license to a REAL ID. Generally speaking, you'll need to visit a DMV office, bring with you certain documents for identification, and possibly pay a processing fee.

Or, if you don't want to upgrade your driver's license, you can always travel with another REAL ID–compliant form of identification, like your passport or Global Entry card.

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Everything Travelers Need to Know About the REAL ID Act

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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Are your days of flying domestically using only your driver’s license numbered? They could be, if you don’t have a new type of license. As the deadline for the REAL ID Act looms, it’s vital for you to know if your current driver’s licenses doesn’t meet the new criteria.

If you’ve been procrastinating getting a REAL ID, there’s some good news—the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) just announced that the REAL ID Act will not be enforced until May 7, 2025, postponing the deadline from May 2023.

Real ID Documents Can Now Be Submitted Online

Here’s a quick and easy primer with everything you need to know about the REAL ID Act, about when to use a REAL ID vs. a passport, and about the Department of Homeland Security’s hard deadline on the changes.

What Is the REAL ID Act?

The REAL ID Act “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses,” says the DHS. This Act applies to state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting IDs that do not meet the new standards.

This means that when the REAL ID ACT is in place, only driver’s licenses issued under REAL ID standards will be accepted at airports.

REAL ID Changes Timeline: When to Worry About Invalid IDs for Flying

In 2005, the REAL ID Act established nationwide requirements for state IDs as a post-9/11 security measure. States had well over a decade to make the changes, but the deadline to complete the transition has been extended multiple times. Some states struggled to make the switch to issuing the new, compliant licenses; having trouble finding the budget for the new licenses, or lacking other logistical means to enact the changes.

May 7, 2025:  According to the DHS website, by this date “every air traveler will need a REAL ID-compliant license, or another acceptable form of identification, for domestic air travel” as well as to enter federal government buildings. If by this date your state license is not a REAL ID compatible one, you will need to bring another form of ID to the airport, like a passport.

How Do I Get a REAL ID?

The process for getting your REAL ID is a little more difficult than the last time you renewed your license: You’ll probably have to visit a DMV and provide paperwork, like proof of residency and proof of lawful presence in the United States. You can, however, submit this paperwork (which you’ll still need to bring with you) online ahead of time for approval : Check your state’s DMV requirements online for more information.

If you’re a non-citizen or you think getting your ID might be more complicated for any other reason, check the Department of Homeland Security’s DHS REAL ID FAQ page for more information on your particular case.

REAL ID vs. Passports

If you’re unable to obtain a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you’ll need to bring a passport or another TSA-acceptable document with you to the airport in order to pass through security. The DHS reminded travelers often of the looming deadline, in part because if everyone rushes to get a REAL ID at once, there could be long wait times in many states.

Does a REAL ID Replace a Passport?

The short answer: no. You’ll need a REAL ID at minimum for domestic travel come May 2025, and your passport can work in place of a REAL ID for domestic travel—but a valid passport will still be required for international travel. So whether you have a REAL ID or not, a passport will always get you through airport security. And whether you have a REAL ID or not, a passport will always be required for international travel.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016 and has been updated to reflect the most current information. Caroline Teel, Shannon McMahon, and Jamie Ditaranto contributed reporting.

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Do I need a Real ID if I have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry?

Reader Questions are answered twice a week by TPG Senior Points & Miles Contributor Ethan Steinberg .

From carry-on liquids to problematic phones and laptops to photo ID requirements, it's important to stay on top of the ever-changing laws surrounding commercial aviation to make sure you're allowed to get on the plane. TPG reader David wants to know if he still needs a compliant Real ID to travel if he already has TSA PreCheck or Global Entry ...

[pullquote source="TPG READER DAVID"]If I have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck do I still need a Real ID?[/pullquote]

So what exactly is a Real ID ? Unlike Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, it's not a program that you can enroll in. Real ID refers to a law that was passed after 9/11 to address security concerns with photo IDs and establish uniform standards, but there's been a fair amount of pushback from those who consider this government overreach. However, beginning on October 1, 2020, Americans will need to present a photo ID that meets the Real ID Act's standards in order to be allowed through a security checkpoint.

RELATED: Everything you need to know about getting a Real ID

As of now, all but four states issue driver's licenses that are compliant with Real ID standards. Just because your state issues compliant IDs, doesn't mean you'll get one automatically. Some states charge extra or make you wait longer, so make sure to carefully review all the options next time you go in to renew your license. If you're unsure as to whether your current driver's license meets the Real ID standards, look for a star in the top right corner which means you're good to go. If there's no star, or your license says something like "federal limits apply" or "not for federal identification," your ID is not compliant.

The four holdouts — Oregon, Oklahoma, New Jersey and Maine — have until the October 2020 deadline to meet the standards. After that point, driver's licenses from those states will no longer be accepted at TSA checkpoints.

Now back to David's question. TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are great programs that can save you time going through airport security and clearing customs when you return to the U.S. (if you don't have them already, be sure to check out the list of cards that offer TSA Precheck and Global Entry application fee credits). But even if you're registered in one of these expedited security programs, you'll still need a compliant Real ID when you travel.

This doesn't need to be a driver's license though, and if you live in one of the states that is not currently compliant, the simple answer might be traveling with your passport at all times, even on domestic flights, to avoid any trouble. Another option would be to carry your Global Entry card with you, which is a Real ID-compliant form of identification (though your TSA PreCheck card is not). You can check out TSA's list of acceptable identification here .

Bottom line

Unlike surprise award chart devaluations, TSA is giving passengers plenty of time to prepare for this change in policy. Even if you've never heard of the Real ID act before today, the good news is that many Americans already carry compliant IDs. If you're in the group that doesn't, you'll need to provide an alternate form of compliant ID to travel beginning next October. Simply being enrolled in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry won't change the rules for you, though carrying your Global Entry card will work.

Thanks for the question, David, and if you're a TPG reader who'd like us to answer a question of your own, tweet us at @thepointsguy , message us on Facebook or email us at [email protected] .

Americans will need Real ID to travel in 2025: Here are the requirements

The U.S. is a year away from requiring Real ID.

The United States is less than a year out from the Department of Homeland Security's federal requirement for Real ID for domestic flights and entering federal facilities, and to help you get ahead -- and avoid a dreaded hourslong wait at the DMV -- "Good Morning America" has gathered all the essential details you need to ensure your identification is up to date.

What is a Real ID?

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security previously delayed the implementation of Real ID several times over the past few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But as of this week, U.S. residents have under a year to obtain their soon-to-be federally required form of identification.

Here's what you need to know:

The federal Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses," the DHS states on its website .

The new rules set out which forms of identification may be used to board flights within the United States and to enter secure federal facilities such as military bases, federal courthouses and other federal facilities.

Applying for a Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency and a trip to your local DMV. See below for more on the full requirements and application process details.

All U.S. states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories are issuing Real IDs.

Click here for additional answers from DHS to some frequently asked questions about Real ID.

Real ID application requirements

Requirements are largely similar across the states, but as of 2021, according to DHS , states are no longer required to collect a social security document from a Real ID applicant. They still must collect and retain the number as part of the application process to verify that information with the Social Security Administration as currently required by the Real ID regulations.

"Not all states have applied this, so please check with your state driver's licensing agency to find the most up to date information," the DHS website states.

In California for example, residents can apply for a Real ID by filling out an application online and upload documents before visiting a DMV office with their uploaded documents to complete the application, which should only take about 15 minutes in person, depending on wait times.

MORE: Millions of Americans could be grounded from flying because of REAL ID deadline

Here's everything California residents would need to provide for the application:

Proof of identity: One original or certified document. For example, a valid passport or birth certificate. Legal name change document is required if name on proof of identity is different from the name on the other documents such as a marriage certificate or adoption papers.

Proofs of California residency: Two documents, paper copies. For example, a utility bill or bank statement.

Social Security number: Some exceptions may apply. Click here for additional details from the DMV REAL ID page.

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What is the latest deadline for Real ID?

Earlier this week marked one year before DHS begins enforcing the Real ID requirement on May 7, 2025.

Starting on that date, a Real ID or other federally approved identification will be required to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

Federal agencies including Transportation Security Administration may only accept state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards as identification for the purposes of accessing federal facilities -- including TSA airport security checkpoints -- if the license or card was issued by a Real ID compliant state in accordance with the Real ID security standards.

Enhanced Driver's Licenses issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, according to DHS , and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.

What does Real ID look like?

The Real ID looks almost the same as a current state ID card or driver's license, but has a compliant star marking.

Some differences may vary by state, such as in California, where a small golden bear appears on the top right corner with the white star on the animal's left side.

If an ID says "federal limits apply," that person will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter federal facilities, such as military bases, federal courthouses, and other locations after the May 7, 2025, deadline.

Does Real ID replace a passport?

The Real ID does not replace a passport for international travel, however it ensures that travelers can fly domestic within the U.S. and access secure federal locations without additional documentation, according to the DMV.

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The Real ID Deadline Is Approaching—Here’s How to Be Prepared

By Jessica Puckett

In less than one year, a major change is coming to the airport security process. Starting in the spring of 2025, all US fliers will need a new type of identification in order to make it past the TSA checkpoint and board their flights.

The new federal identification rules, called Real ID, are set to go into effect on May 7, 2025. After that date, travelers will only be able to use certain enhanced forms of identification at airport security. The new policies will apply to all flights, including domestic ones . The biggest change for fliers will be that a driver’s license will no longer be valid ID to present to TSA. Instead, all airline passengers in the US will need to show a Real-ID compliant driver’s license—which requires a few extra steps to get than a standard license—or another approved ID, like a passport or Global Entry card.

Although the rollout of Real ID has been postponed many times (it was originally supposed to be enforced way back in 2008), the May 2025 date seems to be more firmly set. So if you don’t have a Real ID-compliant form of identification, now is definitely the time to get one.

Fortunately, it’s possible to get a Real ID driver’s license at most local DMVs throughout the 50 states and the five US territories. The only catch is that it does require you to present additional paperwork and pay a little more than a standard license renewal.

Below is a complete guide to the new Real ID rules, including how to obtain a compliant driver’s license, what other forms of identification will be accepted, and what will happen if you show up at the airport unprepared.

What is the new Real ID requirement?

The regulation is part of a law passed by Congress in 2005, which set new federal security standards for driver’s licenses and other forms of identification used to board planes in the US. The new standards apply to all states and territories. After the rules go into effect, driver’s licenses and other IDs that don’t meet the new requirements will not be accepted by TSA for passing through airport security checkpoints.

Even if you have a TSA PreCheck or a Clear membership , you will need a Real ID-compliant form of identification to make it past airport security. A Global Entry card is considered Real ID–compliant and will be accepted under the new rules. Children under 18 get some leeway, as TSA does not require them to present identification when traveling with a companion within the US. As always, on an international trip, passports and other documents may be required by the airline or other agencies.

When is the Real ID deadline?

The new rules will go into effect on May 7, 2025. That's the date that all US residents need to have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or other approved identification in hand to make it past airport security.

How do I get a Real ID driver's license?

All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the five US territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands) are now all issuing driver's licenses that are compliant with the new rules. You simply need to visit your DMV in person to renew or replace your old license with a Real ID version.

It's important to note that, confusingly, states that are Real ID compliant are also still allowed to issue licenses that are not considered Real IDs, so be sure to clarify with your DMV that you are requesting a Real ID.

Applying for a Real ID usually requires more documentation to prove your identity—and sometimes costs more—than obtaining a regular driver's license. Your state's DMV website should have a list of the required paperwork. Typically, the required documents include a birth certificate or passport, social security card, multiple proofs of residence in your state (like a utility bill or bank statement), and proof of US citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or temporary lawful status.

Depending on whether you already have a license or other factors like citizenship status, additional documents may be required or you may be eligible to substitute other documents for ones you may be missing (for instance, you may be able to show a W-2 form with your full social security number in lieu of a SSN card). Be sure to read the list of required documents carefully. The Department of Homeland Security has an interactive map tool on its site that navigates users to each state's individual requirements.

What other forms of identification work to board a plane under the new rules?

Valid passports or passport cards will still work to get you through security for domestic flights, and passengers will still need them to board international flights . Global Entry membership cards are also valid for domestic flights under the new regulations, as are various forms of military ID, tribal-issued ID, and other government-issued IDs. You can see a full list of accepted documents on the TSA’s website.

How do I know if my current driver’s license is acceptable under Real ID rules?

Real ID driver’s licenses are marked with a star in the top corner. (It’s worth noting one confusing state policy: Ohio's old licenses have a gold star, while its Real IDs have a black star.) Enhanced driver’s licenses—which are slightly different, but are issued by some states in addition to Real IDs and are also acceptable under the new rules—have a flag in the corner.

What about airports that accept mobile driver's licenses?

Earlier in 2022, TSA began allowing fliers with PreCheck to use a mobile driver's license uploaded to their iPhone at certain airports. However, the agency says that any passenger using a mobile driver's license still needs to carry a physical ID with them as a backup. So even TSA PreCheck passengers opting to use their iPhone to get through security will still need to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification on them.

What if my airport uses TSA’s new facial recognition technology?

Travelers flying out of the growing number of airports with facial scanners at the TSA checkpoint will still be required to present a Real-ID compliant form of identification. TSA’s facial recognition system, also called CAT-2, requires passengers to scan both their IDs and their faces, and the algorithm matches the biometric scan to the photo on the ID.

Does my child need a Real ID to fly?

According to the TSA, children under 18 are not required to show identification at the security checkpoint when flying with a companion. (The companion, however, needs a valid form of ID.) The agency does encourage travelers to double check their airline's identification rules for minors before arriving at the airport.

What happens if I show up at the airport without an acceptable ID under the new rules?

TSA says you will not be let through security, and you will not be able to fly. In rare occasions in the past, if a flier forgot their ID for a domestic trip, TSA might have worked with them to verify their identity in a different way—like by asking them certain questions about their personal information. But the agency says that after Real ID is implemented, those days will be over. "TSA has no plans to provide an alternate verification process to confirm a traveler’s identity," says TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein. "Counting on TSA to provide that option to travelers who do not have a Real ID-compliant driver license or identification card is not a good strategy."

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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REAL ID: What Travelers Need to Know

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What is a REAL ID?

Do i need real id to fly in 2024, what is the real id act, how will real id affect your travels.

The deadline to get a REAL ID has been extended several times, and for many reasons. The initial deadline was towards the tail end of 2020, but the global pandemic derailed people from taking trips to the Department of Motor Vehicles to get a fresh identification card.

At the end of 2022, the Department of Homeland Security announced that it had extended the REAL ID full enforcement date by another 24 months. The deadline is now May 7, 2025.

The DHS cited "the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the ability to obtain a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card" as the primary reason for the delay.

But once May 2025 rolls around (and assuming the deadline doesn't get extended again), U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. That means you'll eventually need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license (or another government-issued REAL ID) to be able to fly domestically, similar to how you need a passport to fly internationally.

While the should come as good news to procrastinators — considering the possible back up with passport applications (which may take as long as six months for you to receive from the time you apply) — it's still a wise move to get that REAL ID sooner rather than later.

REAL ID is an enhanced driver's license that meets newly issued requirements that ensure secure production and issuance of licenses and IDs. The goal is to prevent or severely curb copying or altering.

No, you do not need a REAL ID to fly in 2024. You have until early May 2025 to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license.

The REAL ID Act is a federal law that was passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 attacks. The goal was to set standards for sources of identification used to enter federal facilities and fly on commercial aircraft, which are regulated by the federal government.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) then announced plans to phase in more secure driver's licenses that are compliant with REAL ID guidelines. These require applicants to provide documents that show the following as proof of identity:

Legal name.

Date of birth.

Social Security number.

Primary address (two items).

Citizenship status.

It has taken several years to implement the REAL ID Act because driver’s licenses are issued by states' departments of motor vehicles, so each state had to comply with the requirements outlined in the act before issuing new IDs to residents.

There are a few things contributing to the confusion surrounding REAL ID. Some states have started issuing Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL), and they work the same as REAL ID. Those states include New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Vermont and Washington.

To figure out whether your license is compliant, look for a black or gold star in the upper right-hand corner, like this:

Once the new policy goes into effect, domestic airline passengers who are older than 18 will need to have a REAL ID or other acceptable identification (this could be a passport) to get past TSA security. There are a few other forms of ID beyond a REAL ID, passport or EDL that can be used to board a domestic flight, including:

DHS trusted traveler ID.

Passport card.

Border crossing card.

Permanent resident card.

Check the Transportation Security Administration rules to see if you have an acceptable alternate form of ID. But in other words, if you're procrastinating on getting your REAL ID but have a flight scheduled after May 7, 2025 (and you don't anticipate updating your ID in the meantime), you could present something like a passport, and be able to fly.

And with that in mind, go ahead and apply for that REAL ID anyway. You likely don't want to carry your valuable passport on a domestic trip, as it's annoying to replace should you lose it. Get that REAL ID now, and leave your passport at home.

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What You Need to Know About Real ID and Travel

Travelers now have until 2025 to get the upgraded driver’s licenses for security screening.

Christina Ianzito,

Jacquelyne Froeber,

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)  will begin enforcing the Real ID law on May 7, 2025. The new deadline follows a previous deadline of May 3, 2023, which was deemed unworkable in part due to the pandemic and its continued disruption of states’ abilities to issue the Real ID–compliant driver’s licenses. The DHS issued a statement on Dec. 5 saying the new deadline will give state licensing agencies time to work through the backlogs created by the pandemic. The extension also gives the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) time to “implement innovations” to make the process as smooth as possible. 

If this sounds familiar, the enforcement date, first set for 2008, has been delayed multiple times. 

Conceived as part of 2005 legislation in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the Real ID law requires people to show security-enhanced IDs to pass through airport security checkpoints or to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases, once the regulations begin to be enforced. Travelers will also be able to use passports or certain other federal documents as an alternative to a Real ID.

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Sometimes called the Star Card, because most states are marking their Real ID cards with a gold or black star in the top right corner, it must include an encoded “machine readable zone,” like a passport’s, with a person’s scannable information. Many state driver’s licenses already have this feature. The key thing that makes the card special is that the federal government requires you to provide certain identifying documentation to obtain one from your state.

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The DHS has spent years on its Real ID public information campaign, but many people remain confused over how to get the cards and what they are.

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A few basics about Real ID:

• To get a Real ID, you need to present documents to your DMV proving your age and identity, Social Security number and address. That generally means bringing a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security card or tax form such as a W-2, and two proofs of address. If you’ve changed your name through marriage, you’ll need a marriage certificate.
• Although the Real ID is also a driver’s license, the old-style driver’s license is still lawful for driving and still available as an option in many states. Some, such as Arizona and Kentucky, are trying to make this clear by calling the Real ID a Travel ID. New Jersey continues to issue standard state licenses, which are marked with the words “Not for ‘REAL ID’ purposes.”
• After May 7, 2025, a regular driver’s license won’t be sufficient to get a passenger through security and onto a plane. The Real ID technically is not mandatory because you can instead use other approved documents, including a passport, passport card, U.S. military ID, Enhanced ID (offered in some states) or an ID from the federal government’s Trusted Traveler Program, such as a  Global Entry card .
• For international travel, you’ll still need a passport.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published Aug. 23, 2019. It was updated to reflect the new Real ID deadline.

​Christina Ianzito covers scams and fraud, and is the books editor for aarp.org and AARP The Magazine . Also a longtime travel writer and editor, she received a 2020 Lowell Thomas Award for travel writing from the Society of American Travel Writers Foundation.​

Jacquelyne Froeber is an award-winning journalist based in Las Vegas, Nevada. She writes and edits travel content for AARP.org.

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REAL ID: What you need to know about the new official identification for flying within the US

Starting may 7, 2025, the tsa and other agencies will only accept ids that meet real id security standards.

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was designed to implement a 9/11 Commission recommendation to improve the security of identification documents, particularly driver’s licenses and state-issued ID cards. Under this legislation, in order for citizens to enter federal buildings or travel within the country, they will require a valid REAL ID.

Once the REAL ID Act goes into effect, federal agencies will only be able to accept driver’s licenses and issued IDs if they were issued by a state that meets REAL ID security standards and includes its compliance mark. They will also accept enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs) that were issued in Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont, as they are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards.

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID is a new security standard for issuing identification such as driver’s licenses and ID cards . In order to gain access to federal buildings, board a commercial flight, or enter a nuclear power plant, you will need a valid REAL ID card. This is not a new ID, but will be “upgraded versions” of other common cards, which will include details highlighting that it is legally valid.

How to get a REAL ID card?

The process to get a REAL ID is simple. Simply visit the driver’s license agency website for the state in which you reside. Typically, the solicitor has to present documents showing full name, date of birth, Social Security number, proof of residency and legal status. Other requirements may be established by each state. Once all requirements are met, the applicant will receive a valid REAL ID card.

When does the REAL ID Act go into effect?

The law goes into effect on May 7, 2025. After that date, a valid REAL ID will be required to enter federal buildings and pass through the security screening area at the airport , and passports cannot be used as an alternative option.

Which states will issue REAL ID-compliant cards?

All states, the District of Columbia and the five U.S. territories are REAL ID compliant and issue REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and ID cards.

What will REAL ID valid IDs look like?

Valid REAL ID cards will have one of five different markings on the top of the card. If the card does not have these markings, it will not be accepted as proof of identity and you will not be able to board a commercial flight. The markings are: a five-point star in gold, a black five-point star, a white star surrounded by a gold circle, a white star surrounded by a black circle, and a bear in gold with a white star on the back. Examples of these can be seen on the Department of Homeland Security site .

Do minors need identification to travel?

No. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not require minors to have an ID. However, their companion must have a valid card.

Do I still need a passport if I already have REAL ID?

For domestic flights, you will not need a passport . However, a passport is essential for international travel. On the other hand, REAL ID cards cannot be used to cross the border into Canada, Mexico or for international travel (a passport will be required).

Are EDLs valid?

Yes. Enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs) can be used to cross the border, and are acceptable alternatives for official federal purposes such as accessing a federal facility or boarding a commercial aircraft.

Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington are the only states that currently issue EDLs.

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Planning to Fly? You’ll Need This ID.

For years, the government has warned travelers they will need a security-enhanced Real ID to board domestic flights, and for years the requirement has been delayed. Now they mean it.

By Debra Kamin

It’s a change nearly 20 years in the making: a post-Sept. 11 law requiring that U.S. travelers carry more than a standard driver’s license to board a domestic flight. Now, after years of delays, it is finally kicking into gear.

Beginning May 3, 2023, U.S. travelers flying within the United States will need to show Transportation Security Administration agents either a security-enhanced driver’s license that’s Real ID-compliant or another T.S.A.-approved form of identification like a passport. A state driver’s license that does not contain the Real ID seal will no longer be accepted.

What is Real ID, anyway?

Real ID is a driver’s license or identification card that bears a special seal, which signifies that the bearer of the card has been screened and approved according to a standard set by the federal government, rather than just by the state issuing the license.

Why is this change taking place?

In the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks, the U.S. government realized that nearly all of the hijackers who boarded commercial planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a field in Shanksville, Penn., were carrying U.S. driver’s licenses and state IDs, and most of those documents had been obtained fraudulently.

In the years that followed, the federal government began an effort to tighten national standards for state-issued documentation, and in 2005, Congress passed the Real ID Act. The act sets minimum standards for driver’s licenses and other types of identification cards. Once the law kicks into gear, any traveler who wishes to use a driver’s license or state-issued ID at a T.S.A. checkpoint must make sure that it is Real ID-compliant.

“The findings of the 9/11 Commission clearly identified gaps in security management of state-level procured identity cards and driver’s licenses,” said Frank Harrison, the North America regional security director for World Travel Protection , a risk management company. “The Real ID Act provides a national framework of screening and approval to ensure consistency and integrity of programs. In other words, each state will maintain authority over their ID issuances, but they collectively will adhere to one standard of practice.”

The Real ID Act was initially set to be enforced in 2008 and has been delayed a number of times.

“It’s remarkable how long it has taken for this to come into effect,” said Scott Keyes, the founder of the travel platform Scott’s Cheap Flights . “It’s been decades in the making.”

How do I know if my license is a Real ID?

The easiest way to tell is just to look at it. Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses have a star, usually in gold or black. The stars look slightly different on each state’s licenses — in California, it sits on top of an image of a bear, which is the state animal.

A license that is not Real-ID compliant will not have a star in the corner, and some will also have the words “federal limits apply.”

Can I get a Real ID regardless of where I live?

Real ID-compliant licenses and identification cards are now being issued in all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia and the majority of U.S. territories. American Samoa is not yet issuing them.

What do I need to get a Real ID?

Each state has a different process for applying for a Real ID, so applicants should check requirements online. New Yorkers can visit a special Department of Motor Vehicles page detailing the process; many other states, including California and Texas, offer similar sites either through their D.M.V. or government portals. In most instances, you can get a Real ID by visiting your local D.M.V., either as part of a standard license renewal or by filling out a special application.

But no matter where you live, to apply for a Real ID or change your license over, you’ll need to provide a Social Security number, prove your address through documents like a utility bill or bank statement, and verify your identity through a handful of additional documents like a birth certificate or passport.

In many instances, there is no additional cost to receive a Real ID if you’re already renewing your license, although some states charge extra — in Pennsylvania, for example, it’s an additional $30 on top of the renewal fee.

If I don’t get a Real ID, can I still fly?

Yes. There are a number of other forms of identification that T.S.A. agents will accept for domestic air travel starting in May. These include a passport, a permanent residency card (also known as a Green Card), or the card for trusted traveler programs, including Global Entry and NEXUS , which allows pre-screened travelers to transit quickly across the United States-Canada border.

In addition, a handful of states — Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Washington and Vermont — offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses , or E.D.L.s. Some travelers may prefer to opt for these over a Real ID because they can also be used at some land or sea border crossings. They provide proof of U.S. citizenship, much like a passport, and are equipped with a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip that can display biographic and biometric data on the owner, including facial image, gender, date of birth and citizenship status, to U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.

E.D.L.s are Real ID-compliant, as well, although instead of a star, they have an American flag. The flag’s location varies by state.

E.D.L.s can be used by travelers crossing land and sea borders to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean, but they can’t be used in lieu of a passport if you’re traveling anywhere by air.

Do children need a Real ID?

No. The T.S.A. doesn’t require kids under the age of 18 to show any identification right now when they’re traveling domestically with an adult.

For international travel, children of all ages are required to carry passports and that will continue.

Can a Real ID be used as a replacement for any other form of identification, like a passport?

It can’t. For the vast majority of travelers, becoming Real ID-compliant will be a matter of simply updating their driver’s licenses. Real IDs cannot be used at any international border, including land crossings with Canada and Mexico, and they can’t be used for sea travel on a cruise, either. International travelers will still be required to carry a passport.

Should I be concerned about my personal privacy?

Maybe. Many organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union of New York, have decried the Real ID Act as a threat to personal privacy and an overstep of information gathering on the part of the federal government.

“A lot of the security and privacy concerns revolve around the fact that it’s pushing every state’s D.M.V. into a national database,” said Anaya Robinson, a senior policy strategist for the A.C.L.U. of Colorado. “If someone were to hack that singular database, they could get the personal information of anyone.”

For undocumented immigrants who seek out driver’s licenses so they can legally operate a motor vehicle, the shift to Real ID also presents a threat, Mr. Robinson added. “There’s a severe privacy concern in the immigration space of the federal government, Homeland Security and I.C.E. being able to access that information,” he said.

In addition to centralizing personal data like addresses and citizenship status into a federal database, the cards also carry a machine-readable zone that can be scanned for information on the card owner’s identity, which detractors say also presents a risk of identify theft.

But only 37 percent of Americans have a passport, according to estimates from the U.S. State Department, so if you plan to fly after May 2023 and don’t want to scramble with alternative documentation, you’ll need to update your driver’s license.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the American flag on Enhanced Driver’s Licenses. While the flag often appears in either the upper right corner or the bottom right corner of a driver’s license, in some cases it appears elsewhere on the license, depending on the state.

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the star that indicates a driver’s license is Real ID-compliant. While the star is usually in the top upper corner of the license, occasionally, as in the instance of Alabama licenses, it is not.

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Prepare for Summer Travels with a REAL ID

Contact:  Office of Public Affairs 2415 First Avenue Sacramento, CA 95818 (916) 657–6437 |  [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 6, 2024

Sacramento – Nearly 17.6 million Californians now have a REAL ID – an increase of 140,096 from May 2024, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

The warmth and adventure of summer is upon us, and the DMV encourages residents to celebrate the season by securing their REAL ID. With less than a year until the federal enforcement date of May 7, 2025, now is the perfect time to ensure you are prepared for all your summer travels and beyond.

“Embrace the spirit of summer freedom and sunshine by getting ready for your future adventures,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “Travel can be easier this time next year if you get your REAL ID now.”

The application process can be started online at REALID.dmv.ca.gov , where documents can be uploaded before visiting a DMV office to complete the application. This streamlined process is quick and efficient while significantly reducing the amount of time for an office visit.

The REAL ID does not replace a passport for international travel, but it does ensure that you can continue flying within the United States and accessing secure federal locations without additional documentation.

To apply for a REAL ID, Californians should visit  REALID.dmv.ca.gov , fill out the online application and upload their documents. Customers must visit a DMV office and bring their uploaded documents to complete the application. By starting the process online, it should only take about 15 minutes in the office. Customers need to provide:

• Proof of identity* – One original or certified document (example: valid passport, birth certificate) *Legal name change document(s) is required if name on proof of identity is different from the name on the other documents (example: marriage certificate, adoption papers).
• Proofs of California residency – Two documents, paper copies (example: utility bill, bank statement).
• Social Security number (exceptions may apply).

Visit  REALID.dmv.ca.gov  for a complete list of acceptable documents and a link to the online application.

Historical REAL ID information:

• Total REAL ID cardholders as of June 1, 2024: 17,564,948
• Total REAL ID cardholders as of May 1, 2024: 17,424,852
• Total REAL ID cardholders as June 1, 2023: 15,806,483

Download REAL ID b-roll:

https://we.tl/t-Ou9aav63m1 https://youtu.be/qhu5gojNMXg

Online Services

The DMV has taken many steps to offer more digital services. Most DMV tasks do not require an office visit, including simple self-service transactions that are no longer available in offices. The DMV encourages customers to use its  online services  and other service channels to complete transactions, including eligible driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals. Customers can also use the  Service Advisor  on the DMV website to learn their options to complete DMV tasks.

To sign up for paperless vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices, customers must sign in or create a secure online account at  dmv.ca.gov , and then opt in.

Sign up to receive the latest DMV News Alerts: DMV NEWS ALERTS – California DMV

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The DMV chatbot and live chat services use third-party vendors to provide machine translation. Machine translation is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. The DMV is unable to guarantee the accuracy of any translation provided by the third-party vendors and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information or changes in the formatting of the content resulting from the use of the translation service.

The content currently in English is the official and accurate source for the program information and services DMV provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes. If any questions arise related to the information contained in the translated content, please refer to the English version.

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The web pages currently in English on the DMV website are the official and accurate source for the program information and services the DMV provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes. If any questions arise related to the information contained in the translated website, please refer to the English version.

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Real ID deadline is rapidly approaching, what to know about the new flight requirement

The really real deadline to make your state-issued identified card, or driver’s license Real ID compliant will be here before you know it. 

And you won’t be fly domestically after 2025 without it. The government has been trying to make Real IDs a thing for a while, initially passing The Real ID act in 2005 in an attempt to set “minimum security standards” for state-issued identification documents.

The law was set to take effect in 2020 but was pushed back by the Department of Homeland Security over “backlogged transactions” at MVD offices nationwide as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to USA TODAY reporting . 

The May 2025 extension was necessary, DHS says, as state driver’s licensing agencies worked to address the mountains of paperwork, which in turn impacted the MVD’s ability to make any real progress on the Real ID rollout. 

“Following the enforcement deadline, federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, will be prohibited from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet these federal standards,” DHS said in 2022. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

That means every every traveler, 18 or older, must have a compliant form of identification in order to travel.

Here’s what to know. 

When does Real ID go into effect? 

The Real ID “full enforcement date” is Wednesday, May 7, 2025, according to DHS. 

When will a Real ID be required to fly?

You or your loved ones need to have a Real ID compliant document, driver’s license or identification card, by May 7, 2025. 

If you have another form of identification that is TSA-approved, like an up to date passport or a permanent resident card then you probably don’t need a Real ID compliant document.

Here are a couple TSA-approved alternatives, if you’re on the fence about getting a Real ID.

• State issued enhanced driver’s license
•  DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by 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 long does it take to get a Real ID?

It will take about two weeks , or 15 business days to get your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License from your state's Motor Vehicle Department.

Enhanced driver’s licenses, which are only issued in a couple of states, including Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont, are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, DHS says. 

How do I know if I have a Real ID? 

All Real IDs will have a stamp on the right hand corner to show that the identification document meets federal standards set forth by The Real ID Act of 2005. 

The symbol stamped on your Real ID card will vary, depending on which state you obtain your new identification card from. 

What does a Real ID look like? 

Your Real ID will have most, if not all of the information that’s included on your driver’s license. 

The only difference is the seal included in the right-hand corner. 

There is a new deadline to get the Real ID. Here’s why you need one

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Pushed out of mind by a handful of deadline delays, Californians now face another drop-dead date to apply for the Real ID if they plan to travel domestically next year.

The goal of the Real ID Act, approved by Congress in 2005, is to improve security and minimize fraud in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Real ID was designed to create a nationwide standard for identification because some state driver’s licenses were not acceptable to board commercial aircraft or cross borders in other states.

Since the planned implementation date was originally announced for 2008, it has been delayed several times, most recently by the pandemic and backlogs at DMV offices.

The current deadline to get the ID is May 7, 2025, and there are no signs of another deferment.

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With less than a year to meet the deadline, nearly 17 million Californians — in a state with a population of nearly 40 million — have the Real ID, according to recent data by the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

That suggests there are many people who haven’t gotten Real IDs and might be wondering if they must.

Why do I need the Real ID?

Starting next year, if you’re 18 or older, the Real ID will be accepted as a form of identification to board domestic flights and enter secure federal facilities, such as military bases and federal courthouses. The traditional identification cards or driver’s licenses offered by the DMV won’t be accepted for such uses.

A Real ID has the image of a bear and a star in the top right-hand corner that indicates it’s federally compliant. A regular identification card has the phrase “Federal Limits Apply,” in the same area of the card.

If you get to an airport and show Transportation Security Administration staff a regular California ID or state-issued driver’s license, you will not be permitted through the security checkpoint, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The TSA accepts other forms of identification. See its website for details.

How do I get a Real ID?

To get a Real ID you have to apply for one through your local Department of Motor Vehicles office.

Start the process by visiting the DMV website and review the document checklist for the required proof you’ll need to prove your identity and residency.

You must provide one of the following to prove your identity:

• Valid U.S. passport or passport card
• Original or certified copy of U.S birth certificate (issued by a city, county, or state vital statistics office). “Abbreviated” or “Abstract” certificates are not accepted.
• Valid permanent resident card
• Foreign passport with valid U.S. visa and approved I-94 form
• Certificate of naturalization or certificate of U.S. citizenship
• Certified copy of birth certificate from a U.S. territory
• Valid employment authorization document card or valid/expired EAD card with notice of action
• Valid permanent resident card with notice of action or approval notice
• U.S. certificate of birth abroad or consular report of birth abroad of U.S. citizen
• Valid foreign passport stamped “Processed for I-551”
• Documents reflecting Temporary Protected Status benefit eligibility

You current full name must match the name on your identifying document.

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April 26, 2024

You must provide one of the following to prove your residency:

• Home utility bill or phone bill
• Records from any state or national bank, state or federal savings association, trust company, industrial loan company, state or federal credit union, or any institution or entity that has issued a credit card
• Insurance documents, including medical, dental, vision, life, home, rental or vehicle
• Medical documents
• Mortgage bill
• Employment documents
• Tax return (either Internal Revenue Service or California Franchise Tax Board faith-based document)
• Rental or lease agreement with the signature of the landlord and the tenant
• School documents issued by a public or private primary, secondary, or post-secondary institution, college, or university that includes the applicant’s date of birth.
• Change of address confirmation by the U.S. Postal Service
• Property tax bill or statement
• Deed or title to residential real property
• Voter registration confirmation letter or postcard issued by the California secretary of state or a local California county elections officer
• Court documents that list the applicant as a resident of California

These documents must have the first and last name as well as mailing address that will be listed on the Real ID.

Police officers won’t be forced to disclose their gender identity to state officials following lawsuit

California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta will stop requiring police officers to disclose their own gender identity when they report details of traffic stops to the state.

May 7, 2024

If your name is not listed on the residency documents you can use a birth certificate, marriage license or domestic partner registration document to prove your relationship with the person listed on the residency document.

You have your proof of identity and residency documents, now it’s time to apply.

You can complete the Real ID application online, which takes less than 10 minutes.

When your application is finished you’ll need to schedule a visit with a DMV office to show your documents and complete the application process.

Before your appointment, have your supporting documents, application confirmation and $35 to pay the fee for the ID.

More to Read

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April 6, 2024

Looking for a ride to soccer practice? California teens can now use their own Uber accounts

Feb. 29, 2024

Column: Older drivers reveal strategies for passing that ‘ridiculous’ California DMV renewal test

Feb. 15, 2024

Where to vote and find ballot boxes in California 2024 primary election

Feb. 1, 2024

How to vote in California’s March 2024 primary election

How will California’s new laws affect you?

Jan. 1, 2024

Travelers can get a passport quicker. An L.A. post office can help Sunday at passport fair

Dec. 2, 2023

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Letters to the Editor: It should be hard to renew a driver’s license. Sorry, seniors

Oct. 16, 2023

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Karen Garcia is a reporter on the Fast Break Desk, the team that has a pulse on breaking news at the Los Angeles Times. She was previously a reporter on the Utility Journalism Team, which focused on service journalism. Her previous stints include reporting for the San Luis Obispo New Times and KCBX Central Coast Public Radio.

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Real id frequently asked questions for the public.

Q: What is REAL ID?

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.  These purposes are:

• Accessing Federal facilities
• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Entering nuclear power plants

Q: When will REAL ID be enforced?

The final enforcement deadline is October 1, 2020.  By this date, not only must all states be issuing Real ID-compliant licenses or IDs, but individuals must also have visited their state’s driver’s licensing agency and obtained a REAL ID compliant card, or acceptable alternative such as a U.S. passport, if they wish to fly on commercial aircrafts or access federal facilities.

Q: What happens on October 1, 2020?

Federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, may only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as identification for purposes of accessing federal facilities - including TSA airport security checkpoints - if the license or card was issued by a REAL ID compliant state in accordance with the REAL ID security standards (meaning the license or card must include the REAL ID compliant star marking).  Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.  Most EDLs do not contain the star marking and this is acceptable.

Q:  Are all states issuing REAL ID compliant cards?

DHS is working closely with all states and territories to provide assistance and guidance to achieve full compliance by the October 1, 2020 deadline.  As of September 5, 2019, 50 states and territories are fully compliant with the REAL ID requirements, and all states are on track to begin issuing compliant licenses and IDs by the October 1, 2020 deadline.  

Q: How do I get a REAL ID?

Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID.  At a minimum, you must provide documentation showing:  1) Full Legal Name; 2) Date of Birth; 3) Social Security Number; 4) Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence; and 5) Lawful Status.

States may impose additional requirements, so check with your state’s driver’s licensing agency website, before visiting them in person, for additional guidance and assistance.

Q: How do I know if my license or identification card is REAL ID compliant?

REAL ID-compliant cards will have of one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card.  If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won’t be accepted as proof of identity in order to board commercial aircraft.

Examples of REAL IDs:

Q: When will I need to change how I travel domestically?

Beginning October 1, 2020 , every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID, or another acceptable form of identification, for accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and boarding commercial aircraft.  The card, itself, must be REAL ID compliant unless the resident is using an alternative acceptable document such as a passport or passport card, or state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License. The Act does not require individuals to present identification where it is not currently required to access a Federal facility (such as to enter the public areas of the Smithsonian) nor does it prohibit an agency from accepting other forms of identity documents (such as a U.S. passport or passport card).

Q: Will minors need to have driver's licenses/ identification cards to fly domestically?

No.  TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the United States. The companion will need acceptable identification.

Q: What happens to travelers who show up without a compliant license? Will TSA turn them away?

Travelers who do not present a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative beginning October 1, 2020 will not be permitted through the security checkpoint.

Q: Is a passport my only other option?

No. TSA accepts several other forms of identity documents. For more information on acceptable forms of identification for boarding aircraft, please visit TSA’s website at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification .

Starting October 1, 2020, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID, or another acceptable form of identification, for accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and boarding commercial aircraft.   The card, itself, must be REAL ID compliant unless the resident is using an alternative acceptable document such as a passport. The Act does not require individuals to present identification where it is not currently required to access a Federal facility (such as to enter the public areas of the Smithsonian) nor does it prohibit an agency from accepting other forms of identity documents (such as a U.S. passport or passport card).

Q: Can I use my REAL ID card to cross the border into Canada and Mexico and for international travel?

No.  REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico or other international travel.

Q: Can I use my REAL ID for sea (cruise) travel?

No.  REAL ID cards cannot be used for international sea cruise travel. 

Q: Do I need a passport if I have a REAL ID?

If you are traveling internationally you will still need your passport.  If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.

Q: What type of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards does the Department of Homeland Security currently accept as identification to access its buildings and facilities and at TSA airport security checkpoints?

Until full enforcement of REAL ID begins on October 1, 2020, DHS and its component agencies, including TSA at its airport security checkpoints, will continue to accept for identification purposes all state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards issued by  compliant states, as well as noncompliant states with a valid extension.

Q: Will a federal agency accept my Enhanced Driver's License?

Yes. State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) are designated as acceptable border-crossing documents by DHS under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and are acceptable alternatives for official federal purposes such as accessing a Federal facility or boarding a commercial aircraft. Individual agency policies may still apply.

Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington are the only states that currently issue EDLs. For more information on EDLs, please go to https://www.dhs.gov/enhanced-drivers-licenses-what-are-they .

Q. What about non-DHS federal entities?  What types of licenses and identification cards will they accept for access purposes?

Federal agencies have the authority to set their own minimum security access requirements and, if desired, decide not to accept noncompliant marked cards before the October 1, 2020 deadline.

For example, The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) recently finalized an update to its DoD-wide installation security policy and is in the process of no longer accepting noncompliant marked cards across all of its facilities and installations.  However, DoD will continue to accept state-issued noncompliant unmarked "legacy" cards until the October 1, 2020 deadline.

To ensure you have the proper identification, DHS recommends that you contact the federal agency you plan to visit in advance, to obtain information regarding identification requirements. As a reminder, the REAL ID Act applies when an individual presents a state-issued driver’s license or identification card to a federal agency for an “official purpose” as defined in the Act and regulations, such as boarding a federally regulated commercial aircraft.  Although a REAL ID card may not be necessary for other purposes such as driving, voting, banking, or applying for benefits or employment, we recommend checking with the relevant state, local, or commercial entities regarding their specific identification requirements.

Q: Is DHS trying to build a national database with all of our information?

No. REAL ID is a national set of standards, not a national identification card.  REAL ID does not create a federal database of driver license information. Each jurisdiction continues to issue its own unique license, maintains its own records, and controls who gets access to those records and under what circumstances. The purpose of REAL ID is to make our identity documents more consistent and secure.

Q: How does REAL ID implementation impact states that provide driver's licenses and IDs to certain non-citizens/undocumented immigrants?

REAL ID allows compliant states to issue driver's licenses and identification cards where the identity of the applicant cannot be assured or for whom lawful presence is not determined.  In fact, some states currently issue noncompliant cards to undocumented individuals. Noncompliant cards must clearly state on their face (and in the machine readable zone) that they are not acceptable for REAL ID  purposes and must use a unique design or color to differentiate them from compliant cards.  DHS cautions against assuming that possession of a noncompliant card indicates the holder is an undocumented individual, given that individuals may obtain noncompliant cards for many reasons unrelated to lawful presence. Possession of a noncompliant card does not indicate that the holder is an undocumented individual, given that individuals may obtain noncompliant cards for many reasons unrelated to lawful presence.

Q: How will the phase-out of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program affect state issuance of driver's licenses and IDs to DACA beneficiaries?

The REAL ID Act allows states to issue temporary (i.e., limited-term), REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and ID cards to applicants who provide valid, documentary evidence that they have “approved deferred action status.”  [Sec. 202(c)(2)(B)(viii)]  Under the REAL ID regulation, applicants with approved deferred action who hold valid Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and Social Security Numbers (SSNs) may qualify to receive temporary REAL ID driver's licenses and ID cards.  The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) Program standardized and expedited the process for obtaining these supporting identification documents for individuals with Deferred Action seeking REAL IDs.  Individuals with approved Deferred Action, valid EADs and valid SSNs may continue to hold temporary (limited-term) REAL IDs until their expiration.  In any case, REAL ID compliant states may continue to issue noncompliant licenses and IDs to individuals with or without lawful status, including deferred action, as defined under the REAL ID Act.

Q. Can a person who was granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) get a REAL ID-compliant license/ID? How long will it be valid?

Yes, a TPS beneficiary can obtain a REAL ID compliant license or identification card. The Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the country's nationals from returning safely, or in certain circumstances, where the country is unable to handle the return of its nationals adequately. USCIS may grant TPS to eligible nationals of certain designated countries (or parts of countries), who are already in the United States. Eligible individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in the designated country may also be granted TPS.

The validity period of the license or ID card generally depends upon the length of the TPS period.  When DHS designates or extends TPS status for a country, it can do so for 6 months or longer through a Federal Register Notice. A TPS beneficiary’s status is tied to a country designated for TPS. Pursuant to Section 202(c)(2)(C)(ii) of the Real ID Act of 2005, a temporary driver's license or temporary identification card issued to individuals who have a pending or approved application for TPS “shall be valid only during the period of time of the applicant's authorized stay in the United States or, if there is no definite end to the period of authorized stay, a period of one year.”

For purposes of assessing compliance with the REAL ID Act, please note that there is no definite end to the period of authorized stay for TPS beneficiaries who present a Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that contains a Category Code of A-12 or C-19 and a “Card Expires” date from the list below.  

An EAD that meets the above description is valid documentary evidence of TPS required by the Real ID Act of 2005, Section 202(c)(2)(B)(vii) and is acceptable for REAL ID purposes. Although a response from the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program confirming immigration status provides a designation end date for TPS, these individuals do not have a definite end to the period of authorized stay. Pursuant to Section 202(c)(2)(C)(ii) of the Real ID Act of 2005, a temporary driver's license or temporary identification card issued to individuals who have a pending or approved application for TPS “shall be valid only during the period of time of the applicant's authorized stay in the United States or, if there is no definite end to the period of authorized stay, a period of one year.”

Issuance of REAL ID Compliant Documents to Citizens of the Freely Associated States

On December 17, 2018, President Trump signed the REAL ID Act Modification for Freely Associated States Act, Public Law 115-323.  This Act amends the REAL ID Act of 2005 to authorize states to issue full-term REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards to citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (collectively known as the Freely Associated States, or FAS) who have been admitted to the United States as nonimmigrants pursuant to a Compact of Free Association and who meet the identification requirements of the REAL ID Act.

Q:  What does the legislation do?  Citizens of these countries are nonimmigrants and have only been issued temporary/limited term licenses in the past. 

The REAL ID Act Modification for Freely Associated States Act amends the REAL ID Act to separate citizens of the Freely Associated States from the categories of non-U.S. citizens who are only eligible to receive a temporary (limited term) REAL ID- compliant driver’s license or identification card with a validity period no longer than the period of authorized stay in the United States, or if there is no definite end to the period of authorized stay, one year.  With this amendment, citizens of the Freely Associated States who present acceptable evidence of identity and lawful status under the REAL ID Act and its implementing regulations should now receive a full-term driver’s license or identification card, rather than a temporary one.  

Q:  What identity and lawful status documents will FAS citizens need to present in order to obtain a REAL ID compliant license?

DHS recently designated an unexpired foreign passport with an approved I-94, with a valid visa no longer required, documenting the applicant’s most recent admission to the United States under a Compact, as  acceptable documents FAS citizens may present to establish identity in order to obtain a REAL ID license or identification card.  FAS citizens also may present one of the other identity documents listed in the regulations, including an unexpired passport, with a valid, unexpired visa (if applicable), and approved I-94, an unexpired employment authorization document, or a previously issued REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card (in which case, a valid passport and I-94 is acceptable evidence of lawful status). In all cases, the documentation presented for proof of identity and lawful status must be verified through Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE).

Q:  What if an applicant states he or she has been in the United States for a number of years and does not have a valid passport?

Freely Associated States citizens who entered the United States lawfully years ago may have passports that have expired.  In order to be issued a REAL ID-compliant document, they will need to renew their passport or present another acceptable identity document, such as an unexpired EAD.

Q:  What will the validity period be for REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification cards issued to citizens of the Freely Associated States who present the necessary identity and lawful status documents?  Will these documents look any different from documents issued to a U.S. citizen?

The appropriate validity period of the driver’s license or identification card will be consistent with the state’s regular expiration period for full-term REAL ID-compliant documents and carry the same compliant markings without any additional language.

Q:  Will other classes of nonimmigrants be eligible to present a valid passport and I-94 for proof of identity and lawful status and be issued a REAL ID-compliant document?

The designation of the unexpired passport with an approved I-94 as an acceptable identity document is only available to Freely Associated States citizens admitted under the Compacts.  This designation does not change the requirement for other classes of nonimmigrants to present a valid unexpired passport, valid unexpired visa, and I-94; or an EAD as evidence of identity and lawful status.  In all cases, the documentation presented for proof of identity and lawful status must be verified through Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE).

Q: Are other categories of non-U.S. citizens that are only eligible to receive a temporary (limited term) REAL ID-compliant document eligible for a regular full term REAL ID-compliant document?

The REAL ID Act Modification for Freely Associated States Act only applies to citizens of the Freely Associated States and enables them to receive full-term REAL ID licenses.  Other categories of non-U.S. citizens in a “temporary lawful status” as defined in the REAL ID regulations remain eligible for temporary (limited term) REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card with a validity period no longer than the period of authorized stay in the United States, or if there is no definite end to the period of authorized stay, one year.  These categories of individuals in a “temporary lawful status” as defined in the REAL ID regulations include a person who is a nonimmigrant; has a pending application for asylum; has a pending or approved application for temporary protected status; has approved deferred action; or has a pending application for lawful permanent resident or conditional permanent resident status.

Q. Does the REAL ID Act require an applicant who wears a head covering for religious reasons to alter or remove the head covering so that the driver’s license or identification card photograph shows their hair or ears?

No. The REAL ID regulatory standards for the digital photograph recognize that some individuals may wear head coverings for religious or other reasons. However, such coverings should not obscure an applicant’s facial features or generate a shadow. For purposes of the photograph, the face should be visible from the hairline to the chin and forward of the ears, and be free of shadows. The REAL ID regulation does not require the exposure of the hair line or the ears.

Additional Questions?

Additional questions may be sent to the Department of Homeland Security at [email protected] .

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Digital ID or no air travel, effective May 2025 - says US govt

 US government will ban Americans from air travel effective May 2025 unless they have federalized 'Real ID' driver's license

The long-awaited deadline is finally approaching on May 7 and it will disqualify many from boarding commercial airplanes, whether domestic or international flights.

LEO HOHMANN

The globalists are moving quickly to crush our freedom of movement, and the US government is all in.

The freedom-crushing policies come under many false pretenses. They come under the guise of national security, protecting the planet from so-called climate change, and protecting us from public-health emergencies.

I reported yesterday on the U.N. World Health Organization adopting a set of freedom-crushing amendments to the existing International Health Regulations. This will lead to forced testing, quarantining and injections, among other harassments, of international travelers, all under the guise of looking out for our health. The IHR amendments also give WHO member states the authority to use “surveillance” to “address” issues of “disinformation” and “misinformation.” They don’t spell out or define the meaning of “address” but we should assume this means governments will have greater censorship powers to clamp down on anyone who releases information contrary to the globalist establishment narrative about the need for mass-testing, mass-injection campaigns or any other public-health issues.

Today, I bring to your attention another government policy that’s about to take effect that will crush domestic air travel under the guise of  national security .

For the rest of this article please go to source link below.

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Get your REAL-ID by May 2025 to board flights

H ARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) – PennDOT is reminding Pennsylvanians to get their REAL-ID driver’s license or ID card by May 2025, or you may not be able to board a domestic commercial flight.

PennDOT teamed up with federal TSA employees at the Harrisburg International Airport on Thursday, June 6, to remind travelers of the time crunch.

“The REAL ID enforcement deadline is quickly approaching,” PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll said in a statement. “REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, but if you think you’ll need one – especially if you plan on flying – we recommend that you start the process now.”

REAL ID is a federal law that affects how states issue driver’s licenses and ID cards acceptable for federal purposes, like boarding a commercial flight or entering certain federal facilities, according to a press release.

TSA officials explain that the change is intended to hinder terrorists from evading detection by using fraudulent IDs.

You can obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card by presenting documents for verification and processing at any PennDOT driver license center. To get one, you will need the following documents verified by PennDOT: 

• Proof of Identity : examples include an original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised seal/embossed or a valid, unexpired U.S. Passport.
• Proof of Social Security Number  (proof must display currently legal name and full nine digits of the Social Security Number): examples include a Social Security card, a W-2 form, an SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form or a pay stub.
• Two Proofs of Current, Physical PA Address : examples include a current, unexpired PA driver’s license or identification card, vehicle registration or a utility bill with the same name and address.
• Proof of all Legal Name Changes  (if current legal name is different than what is reflected on proof of identity document): examples include a certified marriage certificate(s) issued by the County Court for each marriage, court order(s) approving a change in legal name or amended birth certificate issued by the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics. If the customer’s current name is the same as what is reflected on proof of identity document (usually birth certificate or passport), they do not need to show proof of legal name changes.

To get your first REAL ID product, you will need to pay a one-time fee of $30, plus a renewal fee (the current renewal fee is $39.50 for a four-year non-commercial driver’s license or $42.50 for a photo ID).

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For a full list of driver license centers and the services offered, visit the PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services  website .

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