If you haven’t upgraded your driver’s license to a REAL ID yet, now’s the time to do it. Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant license or another form of approved identification—like a passport—to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings.
What is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 as a security measure following the 9/11 attacks. It sets federal standards for state-issued IDs to make them more secure and harder to fake.
How to Check If You Have a REAL ID
- Look at your driver’s license or state ID—if it has a gold or black star in the upper corner, it’s REAL ID-compliant.
- If your ID doesn’t have the star, you’ll need to upgrade it before May 7, 2025, if you plan on using it for air travel or federal facility access.
How to Get a REAL ID
- Visit your local DMV in person—REAL IDs cannot be issued online.
- Bring the right documents, including:
- Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
- Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, etc.)
- Two proofs of address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- Expect long wait times—with the deadline getting closer, DMVs are seeing an increase in appointments, so schedule yours early.
What Happens if You Don’t Get a REAL ID?
- You won’t be able to fly domestically with just a standard driver’s license.
- You’ll need to use an alternative form of ID, such as a passport or military ID, to get through TSA security at airports.
- Entering federal buildings or military bases may also require a REAL ID or another approved form of identification.
How Many People Still Need a REAL ID?
- As of early 2025, only 60% of Americans have upgraded their licenses to REAL ID.
- Some states, like Iowa, have higher compliance rates (75%), while others still have millions of people who need to make the switch.
- Many DMVs are booking up fast, so last-minute appointments might be hard to find.
What Should You Do Now?
- Check your license—does it have the REAL ID star? If not, start the process ASAP.
- Book a DMV appointment early—as the deadline approaches, wait times will get longer.
- Make sure you have the right documents—some people get turned away because they don’t bring everything they need.
- If you travel often, consider using a passport instead—if you already have one, you won’t need a REAL ID to fly.