As of May 7, 2025, the REAL ID Act is officially in effect. If you\u2019re flying domestically within the U.S., you\u2019ll need to show a REAL ID-compliant driver\u2019s license or another acceptable form of identification at TSA checkpoints.<\/p>\n
Avoid travel delays\u2014make sure you’re prepared before heading to the airport.<\/p>\n
What is the REAL ID Act?<\/b><\/p>\n
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was a response to the 9\/11 Commission\u2019s recommendation to standardize identity documents for improved security. As of May 7, 2025, all travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant ID to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities.<\/p>\n
If your current driver\u2019s license isn\u2019t updated to meet federal standards, it will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel.<\/p>\n
Look for a star in the upper corner of your driver\u2019s license or state ID. This star indicates REAL ID compliance.<\/p>\n
All U.S. states and territories now issue these IDs, but many residents still haven\u2019t upgraded. To verify if your ID is compliant, visit your state\u2019s DMV or driver licensing agency website.<\/p>\n
If you haven\u2019t upgraded your license, don\u2019t worry. The TSA accepts other federally approved forms of identification:<\/p>\n