Real ID requirements are here. Are you ready?
After years of delays and deadline extensions, the Real ID Act is finally going live.
Starting tomorrow, your standard driver’s license might not be enough to board a domestic flight or enter federal buildings. And Kalshi’s prediction market suggests that travel could sink considerably for the week Real ID goes into effect.
Here’s what it means — and how to stay ahead of the hassle.
What Is Real ID?
Passed in 2005 after 9/11, the Real ID Act set federal standards for state-issued identification. A Real ID-compliant card has enhanced security features and requires stricter documentation to obtain. It’s not a passport — but it’s a passport to domestic compliance.
How to Tell If You Have One
Look for the gold or black star in the top right corner of your driver’s license or state ID. No star? It’s not Real ID-compliant—and starting tomorrow, it won’t get you through TSA at the airport.
What You’ll Need to Fly
Starting May 7, 2025, domestic airline passengers over 18 will need a Real ID-compliant license—or a passport, military ID, or other federally approved documentation. Forget your compliance? Forget boarding.
What You’ll Need to Enter Federal Facilities
Access to military bases, nuclear sites, and federal buildings like courthouses will now require Real ID or alternative federal ID. Don’t show up with a basic card — security won’t be flexible.
How to Get One
Bring proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), social security number, two proofs of state residency, and legal name change documents if needed. Visit your local DMV in person. No shortcuts here.
States Enforcing It
All 50 states, D.C., and most U.S. territories are issuing Real ID-compliant licenses. The holdouts? American Samoa and some smaller jurisdictions have waivers or modified timelines — but the vast majority are fully on board.
What If You Don’t Have One?
You can still travel — with a valid passport or TSA-approved ID. But relying on workarounds isn’t sustainable. Sooner or later, you’ll need to update. Don’t be the one scrambling at 5 a.m. in the TSA line.
Common Misconceptions
No, it’s not a national ID. No, it’s not mandatory for driving. And no, it doesn’t replace your passport for international travel. It’s a compliance standard — nothing more, but definitely not less.
Get Ahead, Not Left Behind
It’s happening. Real ID is no longer a slow-moving deadline — it’s a hard reality. If you’re not compliant, fix that now. If you are, relax — you’ve passed the first test of federal adulthood.
