Starting May 7, 2025, the rules for domestic air travel and access to federal buildings are changing—permanently. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has announced that enforcement of the REAL ID Act will officially begin on that date, marking the end of decades-long delays and the full implementation of post-9/11 identity security reforms.
“If you plan on traveling, we need your help to prevent delays and to prove your identity. Get a REAL ID,” Noem said in a video message. “These IDs keep our country safe because they help prevent fraud and enhance security. Please do your part to protect our country. Go today, and don’t delay.”
Starting May 7, you will need a Real ID to fly. Real IDs make identification harder to forge, thwarting criminals and terrorists. If you plan to fly, make sure you get a Real ID so you won’t be denied from your flight or face travel delays!https://t.co/rmP0renGHs pic.twitter.com/f92iT0uygA
— Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) April 11, 2025
The REAL ID Act was originally passed in 2005 after the 9/11 Commission recommended strengthening identity verification standards nationwide. The initiative aims to ensure that all state-issued IDs—such as driver’s licenses—meet strict federal security standards before being used for certain purposes, like boarding commercial flights or entering military bases, nuclear facilities, and most federal buildings.
President Trump signed a key enhancement to the law in 2018, known as the REAL ID Act Modification for Freely Associated States Act (Public Law 115-323), which extended protections and documentation standards to residents of certain U.S. territories.
Under the new regulations, travelers will need one of the following REAL ID-compliant forms of identification to fly domestically:
- A REAL ID-marked driver’s license (indicated by a star or other marking)
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS)
- Military ID
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Enhanced driver’s licenses (issued by select states)
- Federally recognized tribal IDs
- Transportation worker credentials
- Veterans Affairs-issued VHIC
- Several others as listed by TSA
Importantly, children under 18 are not required to carry ID for domestic travel, though airlines may have specific policies.
If a traveler arrives at the airport without valid ID due to loss or theft, TSA may allow them to go through an identity verification process. However, failure to provide ID or to cooperate will result in being denied access to the checkpoint.
The TSA strongly recommends travelers without compliant identification arrive at least three hours early to allow time for any additional screening.
Bottom line: Check your ID now. If it doesn’t have a REAL ID mark, head to your local DMV and get one. Otherwise, expect delays, extra screening—or no flight at all.
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