REAL ID Requirement for Air Travel Begins May 7

The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver's license is approaching, with enforcement set to begin on May 7, 2025. Travelers aged 18 and over will need to present a REAL ID or an alternative federally accepted ID, such as a passport, to board domestic flights or enter secure federal facilities. The REAL ID Act was enacted following the 9/11 Commission's recommendations aimed at standardizing identification issued by states. States like Virginia and Colorado have been issuing compliant IDs for years, and residents are encouraged to check their licenses for the required star indicator of compliance. TSA officials emphasize the importance of obtaining a REAL ID to avoid delays at security checkpoints, as non-compliant IDs will result in denial of boarding. Overall, the initiative aims to enhance security and prevent the use of fraudulent identification in air travel and federal access.