After 17 years of delays, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is at last implementing the REAL ID mandate for domestic air travel across the United States.

Starting Wednesday, May 7, 2025, travelers in the U.S. must show a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights and to enter military bases and certain federal establishments. A typical driver’s license or state-issued ID that does not have the REAL ID designation—usually a star located in the top right corner—will be invalid for these purposes.

Can I Fly Without a REAL ID?

Perhaps, but prepare for delays. While the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), under DHS, may permit some travelers without a REAL ID to board flights, they warn that this could lead to considerable wait times. A recent DHS press release stated that passengers lacking a REAL ID or another approved form of identification “can expect delays when they reach the TSA security checkpoint.” The duration of the delay will vary depending on how many other passengers are also without compliant IDs at that time.

What Are Acceptable Alternatives to a REAL ID?

If you don’t possess a REAL ID by May 7, you can still fly domestically using other TSA-approved ID forms. These are a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or permanent resident card. For a full list of accepted IDs, check the TSA’s official identification webpage.

How Do I Obtain a REAL ID?

The method for acquiring a REAL ID differs by state. Generally, you will need to apply through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). For instance, in California, applicants must fill out an online application, upload necessary documents (such as a passport or birth certificate for identity verification and utility bills for proof of residency), provide their Social Security number, and then visit a DMV office in person with the original documents to complete the application process.

Be ready: this process may be lengthy and could involve several steps.

Why Was the REAL ID Established?

The REAL ID Act was enacted in 2005 in response to suggestions from the 9/11 Commission. It was part of a wider array of security measures implemented following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The legislation set forth stricter federal criteria for state-issued IDs and prohibited the TSA from accepting IDs that do not conform to those standards.

According to the TSA, the aim of REAL ID is to “enhance the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards while making it more difficult for terrorists and others to evade detection by utilizing fraudulent identification.”

Although the initial deadline for the enforcement of REAL ID was slated for 2008, it has faced numerous postponements. As the May 2025 deadline nears, it seems that REAL ID is finally becoming a reality for travelers in America.