Countdown to Real ID Deadline: What’s at Stake for Americans?

With the May 7, 2025, deadline for Real ID approaching, millions of Americans are unprepared for new federal identification requirements that could leave them unable to board domestic flights or enter government buildings.

Key Takeaways

Starting May 7, 2025, Americans 18 and older will need a Real ID or an acceptable alternative to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
Despite the approaching deadline, only about 61.2% of IDs and driver’s licenses currently meet Real ID standards.
The Real ID Act was implemented following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to enhance security and prevent counterfeiting.
Valid passports and military IDs will be accepted as alternatives to Real ID.
Obtaining a Real ID requires visiting the DMV with specific documentation, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and residence.

Post-9/11 Security Measure Approaching Enforcement

The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 following a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission, is finally reaching its implementation deadline after several delays. The measure aims to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, making them harder to forge and improving national security. Despite nearly two decades since its passage, compliance remains surprisingly low as the May 7, 2025, deadline looms, with only about 61.2% of IDs and driver’s licenses expected to meet the Real ID standard.

The impending deadline has generated increased traffic at DMVs nationwide. In Illinois, officials have opened a Real ID supercenter to process applications more efficiently, while in Florida’s Miami-Dade County, reports have emerged of scalpers selling DMV appointments to desperate residents seeking to obtain their Real ID before the deadline. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reports only about 81% compliance at checkpoints, indicating that nearly one-fifth of travelers currently lack the necessary documentation.

What Americans Need to Know

The Real ID requirement does not affect all aspects of daily life. It is not required for driving, voting, or applying for federal benefits. However, once the deadline passes, those without a Real ID or acceptable alternative will be unable to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. Real IDs can be identified by a star in the top right corner, while Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and IDs, available in some states, feature an American flag and the word “Enhanced.”

Obtaining a Real ID requires visiting a local Department of Motor Vehicles office in person with specific documentation. Required documents include a valid ID, proof of Social Security number, proof of date of birth, and two items showing state residency. Many DMVs require appointments, which have become increasingly difficult to secure as more Americans rush to comply with the approaching deadline.

Alternatives and Enforcement

For those who may not obtain a Real ID by the deadline, several alternatives will be accepted. Valid passports, passport cards, and military IDs meet federal requirements and can be used instead of a Real ID for domestic air travel and accessing federal facilities. However, passport processing times may increase as more Americans seek alternatives to Real ID, potentially creating additional complications for those who wait too long.

While officials have indicated enforcement will be phased in, travelers should prepare for potential complications. The TSA has stated that individuals without proper identification may face significant delays or be denied boarding altogether. With nearly 20% of current travelers lacking compliant identification, airports could face substantial disruptions once the deadline passes unless compliance rates improve significantly over the coming months.