Are you prepared for a shift in your travel style? Beginning in May 2025, you might not be able to board a plane in the US with just your driver’s license. You did really read correctly. New regulations that the government has put into place will alter how people identify themselves when they travel.
How does this affect you personally? In order to meet the new requirements and prevent surprises at the airport, you will need an updated document known as a Real ID. To find out how to be ready for this new era of travel security, continue reading. It’s not as difficult as it seems!
About Real ID
An improved form of identity, like a driver’s license, is called the Real ID. It was developed in order to adhere to the much more stringent security regulations that were put in place in 2005 with the intention of making travel and access to significant locations (such as airports and government buildings) safer for all.
Prior to May, you could board an aircraft within the US using a state ID or your normal driver’s license. However, as of that month, you will require a Real ID in order to travel on domestic flights.
What makes it required, and when?
Mark the date. A crucial date for those who haven’t gone to issue their papers yet is May 7, 2025. It will become essential to present your paperwork or another type of investigation that the TSA approves after that day.
All users above the age of eighteen will need to ensure that their identification is up to date prior to that date, as driver’s licenses as they currently exist will no longer be adequate for domestic travel.
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How can you ask for it if you don’t have it?
It’s really simple; in order for your data to be validated, you will need to schedule an appointment at one of the DMV locations and provide one of the following documents.
- U.S. passport (dated)
- A birth certificate issued by a US state government is what matters, not whether it is an original or a replica.
- Green card (current)
- 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.
