Are you prepared for a change in the way you travel? Your driver’s license could not be sufficient to board an aircraft within the United States as of May 2025.
Indeed, you read correctly. The government has put new regulations into effect that will alter how people identify themselves when they travel.
For you, what does this mean? To meet the new standards and prevent surprises at the airport, you will need a Real ID, which is an updated document. Continue reading to find out how to ensure that you’re ready for this new phase of travel security. It’s not as hard as it seems!
What is the actual ID?
An improved form of the identification we use on a daily basis, such a driver’s license, is called the Real ID. In order to make travel and access to key locations (such as airports and federal buildings) safer for everyone, it was designed to adhere to substantially stronger security regulations that were put into place in 2005.
Previously, you could use a state ID or your normal driver’s license to board an aircraft within the United States, but as of May, domestic flights will require a Real ID.
This adjustment is intended to increase security and lower risks by ensuring that travelers’ identities are more precisely verified. Although it can initially seem a little complicated, the modification is intended to better protect us.
When is it required, and why?
Note the date. The deadline for those who have not yet gone to issue their document is May 7, 2025. You will need to present your paper or another type of investigation that the TSA accepts starting on that day.
Driver’s licenses as they currently exist will no longer be accepted for domestic travel, and everyone over the age of eighteen will need to ensure that their identification is up to date prior to that day.
How can I tell whether I have a legitimate ID already?
Very simple: find the star in the top right corner of your card. If it is already present in your document, it satisfies the Real ID standards, therefore you don’t need to take any further action. This minor detail is essential to ensuring that you are current.
And how can I get it if I don’t already have it?
You only need to schedule an appointment at one of the DMV locations and bring one of the following documents so that your information can be validated.
- Green card (valid)
- US passport (dated)
- A birth certificate issued by a US state government is what matters, not whether it is an original or a replica.
- An approved L-94 form and a valid US visa are required for foreign passport holders (this is for those foreign residents without nationality).
- US citizenship certification
- US birth certificate
- A notice of action (l-797 C) or employment authorization document (EAD)
- Green card in good standing with notice of action (l-797)
- “Proceded for a foreign passport (L-551)”
- foreign birth certificate or report from the consulate.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) verification document
It makes no difference what kind of paper you bring to the office as long as it has your full name, birthdate, and place of birth, as these are necessary details to fill out the application.
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Is the license available online?
Because the offices need to confirm your identification, you are unable to issue it online the first time. However, you can make an online appointment request.
- Fill out the online application by visiting the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. A confirmation number will be sent to you once you’re done. You will need it for your DMV visit, so be sure to save it carefully.
- After completing this, collect the previously stated documents and visit the DMV office. Remembering to bring your confirmation code will help expedite the procedure. Once you have all of your documentation ready, you just need to finish the last stages in person. You won’t have any issues getting your real ID.
