TSA Enforces REAL ID Requirement Nationwide May 7, 2025

With the enforcement deadline for REAL ID set for May 7, 2025, travelers across the U.S. are urged to ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification, as it will be required for boarding domestic flights and accessing certain federal facilities. TSA and travel advisors warn that many Americans remain unprepared, potentially leading to significant delays or being turned away at airport security after the deadline. There will be no workaround for those without an approved ID, and extra screening could result in missed flights. While DMVs in some states, like South Carolina, report relatively short wait times, others, such as North Carolina and Washington, face longer waits for appointments and processing. Authorities also warn of an increase in phishing scams related to the REAL ID transition, urging consumers to be cautious with unsolicited communications and to seek information directly from official DMV or DHS websites. Multiple forms of identification, including passports, military IDs, and certain tribal or travel program cards, will be accepted, but standard state IDs or expired licenses will not suffice after the deadline.