TSA Real ID Requirements for Air Travel: What You Need to Know?

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will enforce the updated TSA Real ID requirements for air travel, meaning all passengers aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification to pass through airport security for domestic flights.

This change is part of a federal law aimed at improving ID security standards nationwide. If your current state-issued ID does not have a star (or a flag in some states), it likely isn’t REAL ID-compliant—and you could be denied boarding unless you bring an accepted alternative, such as a U.S. passport, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), or military ID. 

In short: No REAL ID or approved ID = No boarding. Now is the time to check your ID and prepare, especially if you’re planning to fly within the U.S. after the deadline. If you’re booking trips soon, travel portals like Capital One Travel already notify users of REAL ID requirements and airport-specific updates while reserving flights.

Why the REAL ID Act Exists?

The 2005 Real ID Act set high security standards for state IDs, such as requiring proof of identity, Social Security number, legal residency, and the inclusion of advanced features like digital photos and tamper-resistant materials. Federal agencies, including TSA, cannot accept non-compliant IDs for access to airports or federal buildings..

Timeline: From Law to Enforcement

• 2005: Real ID Act passed.
• 2008–2024: Multiple enforcement delays due to state resistance and the COVID‑19 pandemic.
• May 7, 2025: TSA begins requiring REAL ID compliance at airport security. Enforcement continues through 2027.

What Changed on May 7, 2025?

Starting May 7, 2025, anyone aged 18 and older boarding a domestic flight in the U.S. must present one of the following:

1. A REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver’s license or ID, marked with a star/flag.
2. An acceptable alternative, such as:
   
   • U.S. passport or passport card
   • Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) from MI, MN, NY, VT, WA
   • DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
   • Military ID (active and dependent)
   • Green card, border-crossing card, tribal ID, etc.

If you’re flying with loyalty points, premium portals like Amex Travel already integrate TSA reminders and ID tips during the booking process, helping travelers avoid unpleasant surprises at the gate.

What ID Cards Look Like?

REAL ID cards feature a gold star or special flag symbol in the upper right corner. EDLs show a flag instead of a star.

Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID

If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, no worries—many alternatives still work at TSA checkpoints:

If You Don’t Have a REAL ID (Yet)

Can You Still Fly?

Yes. TSA will still allow you through as long as you have one of the acceptable alternatives. However, travelers without compliant ID may face extra screening, delays, or even be turned away.

What Happens at the Airport?

TSA offers a secondary identity verification process where you may need to confirm personal information (e.g., name, address) and possibly undergo additional screening. It’s best to arrive at least three hours before flight time to avoid problems.

Applying for a REAL ID

To get a compliant ID, visit your state DMV with:

• Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport book/card)
• Social Security number (SSN card, W-2 form)
• Proof of address (utility bill, lease)
• Legal presence documentation (for non-U.S. citizens) 

Stay updated with your state DMV as requirements may vary. If you’ve already started planning future trips using Chase Travel, their system typically flags travelers who haven’t uploaded REAL ID-compliant documents.

Tips to Prepare

Know What You Have?

Check your ID—REAL IDs are easily identified by a star or gold bear + star (in CA). EDLs have a flag instead.

Alternatives That Work

Don’t have a compliant license? Use a:

• U.S. passport or passport card
• EDL if available
• Military ID or other federal IDs like Global Entry

Don’t Wait

With DMV backlogs and heavy demand, start your REAL ID application early to avoid travel disruptions.

Arrange More Time at the Airport

Without compliant ID, you risk additional steps at TSA checkpoints. Plan to arrive at least three hours early.

Remember Kids Under 18

Children 17 and younger don’t need to show ID on domestic flights when traveling with an adult, but airlines may still require it. For international travel, passports are mandatory.

Wider TSA Security Context

New Face-Scanning Kiosks

TSA is rolling out facial recognition machines at security checkpoints. They let travelers authenticate ID and boarding passes without showing a paper ticket. Participation is optional, and photos are deleted after use.

Other Security Enhancements

Power banks now must be carried in carry-on luggage only, and checkpoint lanes are being optimized for traffic flow—especially around peak travel times.

Why REAL ID Matters?

A Step Up in Security

REAL ID increases the difficulty of forging IDs by requiring more proof, secure materials, and cross-state data. It closes vulnerabilities highlighted by the 9/11 Commission.

A National Standard

Instead of a patchwork of security levels from state to state, REAL ID ensures federal agencies, including TSA, use reliable, verified IDs for sensitive access.

Looking Ahead

Digital and Mobile IDs

Expect more travel convenience soon—Apple Wallet and Google Wallet are preparing to support digital REAL IDs and passports at some airports starting late 2025.

Ongoing Enforcement

While enforcement is phased through May 5, 2027, TSA will gradually tighten how strict the ID checks are. The goal is full compliance by then.

Need Help? Consider CLEAR

Third-party services like CLEAR ($199/year) allow you to use biometric digital ID verification at airports, which can help if you lack a REAL ID—but this doesn’t replace the need for approved identification.

Final Takeaway

• May 7, 2025 marks a new era: domestic travelers aged 18+ need a REAL ID or approved alternative at security checkpoints.
• Accepted IDs include REAL IDs, passports/cards, EDLs, military, Global Entry, etc.
• Noncompliance may lead to extra screening—but flying is still possible.
• Avoid airport delays by applying early, arriving early, and checking your ID ahead of time.

Visit Wavydestinations for more travel details and updates!