Final call: Real ID will be required for all domestic travelers 18+ starting May 7

Starting May 7, 2025, travelers aged 18 and older will need to present a REAL ID-compliant identification or an approved alternative to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The announcement follows years of delayed implementation of the REAL ID Act, a federal law passed by Congress in 2005 to enhance national security and standardize identification protocols following the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission. After multiple extensions, the TSA confirmed earlier this year that the law will be fully enforced nationwide beginning this May.

In New York City, the push to meet the May 7 REAL ID deadline has prompted extended DMV office hours and increased outreach efforts, particularly in immigrant-rich neighborhoods. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles recently launched REAL ID Thursdays, opening select offices from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. every Thursday for REAL ID and Enhanced ID processing.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced federal security standards. In New York, REAL IDs are easily identifiable by a black or gold star in the upper right-hand corner. These IDs are issued through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

REAL ID-compliant licenses or IDs will be required to:

Board domestic commercial flights

Enter secure federal facilities such as military bases and nuclear power plants

Access certain federal buildings where ID is required

What if I don’t have a REAL ID?

Travelers who attempt to board domestic flights after May 7 without a REAL ID or another approved form of identification may face delays, additional screenings, or even denial of entry through airport security.

However, there are alternative forms of identification accepted by TSA, including:

A valid U.S. passport or passport card

DHS Trusted Traveler Program cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)

Permanent resident cards

U.S. Department of Defense IDs

Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) from states like New York, Michigan, Minnesota, and Vermont

Foreign passports and certain federally recognized tribal IDs

How to get a REAL ID

To obtain a REAL ID in New York, you must visit a DMV office in person and bring specific documentation, including:

Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or U.S. passport)

Proof of Social Security number (or ineligibility)

Two proofs of New York residency (e.g., utility bills, bank statements)

Proof of lawful status in the U.S.

Appointments are highly recommended, and requirements can vary slightly by state, so residents should check the New York DMV website for the most current information.

A sample New York State Real ID featuring a star in the top right corner, indicating compliance with federal travel regulations required for domestic flights beginning May 7, 2025. Photo via Airport Voice

The history behind REAL ID

The REAL ID Act of 2005 was created in response to security concerns raised after 9/11. It established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. Once enforcement begins, federal agencies will be prohibited from accepting identification from states not in compliance with these standards for official purposes.

Why it matters now

With the enforcement deadline rapidly approaching, the TSA and Department of Homeland Security are urging travelers to check their IDs now and act early to avoid last-minute complications.

Still have questions?

Visit the TSA’s official page on ID requirements at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification or check with your local DMV for guidance on how to upgrade to a REAL ID.