Many Americans are not REAL ID yet. It is time to meet your new ID, the one that is ready to fly in summer 2025. In about 64 days, you will need to be prepared if you would like to travel within the United States by plane.
Not only will you need Real ID for domestic flights, but it will also be essential if you need to visit any federal facilities that require it. But when is the exact date you must have this sort of ID or accepted alternative?
REAL ID and the upcoming deadline
According to the Department of Homeland Security, it will be on May 7, 2025, when all United States travelers must be REAL ID compliants. Or else, they will not be able to board domestic flights unless they have an alternative card.
No doubt millions of Americans will travel after May 7, 2025. Therefore, they will need to get REAL ID as soon as possible. Those Americans with a driver’s license or ID that say Enhanced or has a star on it are REAL ID already.
Hence, they will be able to board domestically with their enhanced driver’s license or with ID that has a flag or star, or both on it. Apart from domestic flights and to access some federal facilities, you will need it to enter a nuclear power plant.
How do Americans get a REAL ID?
In the first place, you will need to visit you State’s driver’s licensing website. They will provide you with the necessary documentation you will be requirement to get this new ID before May 7, 2025.
Generally, you will need any official documentation which shows the date of birth, full legal name, lawful status, 2 proofs of address of principal residence and Social Security Number.
Additional requirements may apply in certain States. In order to avoid delays, make sure you check it online to have al the information ready when you apply for REAL ID. Remember that alternatives like a valid Passport are allowed by DHS.
