Beginning Wednesday, May 7, the much-awaited REAL ID deadline will officially take effect. Nevertheless, officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have stated that travelers who haven’t obtained a REAL ID yet can still board domestic flights — but it’s advisable for them to arrive at the airport significantly earlier than usual.

During a congressional hearing on Tuesday, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that passengers lacking a REAL ID would face additional security screening at U.S. airports. This could involve being directed to separate lines or undergoing more intensive checks. The New York Times notes that TSA officials recently reiterated this advice in a Reddit discussion, recommending that travelers without a REAL ID plan to arrive at the airport at least one hour earlier than they typically would.

The enforcement of the REAL ID requirement comes almost 20 years after the legislation was enacted in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Although the mandate has experienced several delays over the years, President Biden established the May 2025 deadline, which was confirmed by the Trump administration.

For many years, Americans have been able to travel domestically using just a standard state-issued driver’s license. The REAL ID, distinguished by a star, necessitates more rigorous identity verification. This includes providing documentation such as a Social Security number and proof of residence. The process to obtain a REAL ID differs by state. In California, for example, applicants must fill out an online form, upload documents including a passport or birth certificate, and provide proof of residency (like utility bills). They then need to visit a DMV office in person with the original documents to finalize their application.

Travelers without a REAL ID can still fly domestically without undergoing extra screening — provided they present an alternative TSA-approved identification. Acceptable alternatives encompass a valid U.S. passport, a permanent resident card, a Global Entry card, or a Department of Defense ID.

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