Have you upgraded your ID or driver’s license to REAL ID yet?
It feels like we’ve been talking about this for a long time – because we have! The deadline for upgrading to REAL ID has been delayed for several years now. Recently, it’s been announced that there will be no more extensions, which means everyone will need to have their ID and/or driver’s license updated to the REAL ID standard by May 7 2025 in order to board any flight originating in the US.
What is REAL ID, and how do I know if I have it?
Basically, REAL ID is a more secure version of the ID card you already have. Additional, more strictly regulated, proofs of identity are used when you apply for the ID, to help verify that you really are who you say you are. All REAL ID cards are denoted by a gold star in one of their top corners. Sometimes, the star is incorporated into the shape of the state or a symbol of the state that issued the ID. Other times, it’s simply a gold circle with a star in the center. Either way, look for a gold star – if you have one on your ID card, you’re all set to fly in 2025!
Alternatively, passengers can use a passport or certain other accepted forms of idea found on the TSA’s website to board a plane if they don’t have REAL ID once enforcement begins May 7, 2025.
I don’t have a gold star on my ID – how can I get one?
Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID. At a minimum, you must provide documentation showing:
- Full Legal Name, Date of Birth, and Social Security Number
- Two (2) proofs of address for your principal residence
- proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the US
Individual states may have additional requirements or specific rules about what forms of identification are accepted, so make sure to check before you go!
If you’re due to renew your license this year, there is no additional fee to become REAL ID compliant. If you’re in between renewals and need a new card, there will be a modest fee for processing a duplicate ID card.
Many licensing locations are very busy with people getting ready for next May. It’s always a good idea when possible to schedule an appointment in advance to apply for your REAL ID, to avoid spending all day waiting in line at the DMV.
Make sure you’re ready to fly in 2025!
Currently, DHS estimates the number of IDs in the US that are REAL ID compliant to be under 60%. Remember – if you want to board any flight in the US starting MAY 7, 2025, you need to make sure you have a gold star on your card to indicate that your ID is verified.
Do you know where you’re going to fly to first with your REAL ID in 2025?
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