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REAL ID Required for U.S. Domestic Flights and Federal Access Starting May 2025, Mandated by DHS

Dec 30, 2024, 06:53 PM

Starting May 7, 2025, travelers in the United States will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities, as mandated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The REAL ID, marked with a star in the upper right corner of the card, indicates compliance with federal security standards set forth by the REAL ID Act. This act was passed by Congress in 2005 following a 9/11 Commission recommendation to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification documents. Alternatives to a REAL ID include a passport or an enhanced driver's license issued by several states. The deadline, which has been extended multiple times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to enhance security for domestic travel.