Starting Wednesday, May 7, adults aged 18 and older will be required to present a REAL ID to board domestic flights, enter certain federal facilities, and access nuclear power plants in the United States.
This measure responds to the definitive implementation of the REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, and aims to enhance security standards for identity documents used in the country.
Just hours before it goes into effect, Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna requested a temporary suspension of the measure from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). She expressed concern about the privacy of certain cases and a potential lack of awareness among many citizens.
The Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, warned this week that "everyone will need a REAL ID, passport, or another valid form of identification; otherwise, they may experience delays in their flights." She clarified that those who are unable to meet the deadline will still be able to obtain a REAL ID later on.
What is the REAL ID?
The REAL ID is not a new type of document, but rather an updated version of the driver's license or state identification card that meets federal security requirements.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) specified that the identifications that comply with this regulation include a star at the top. "If the card does not have it, it does not meet the REAL ID standards and will not be accepted as proof of identity for boarding commercial airplanes," warns the DHS.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) assures that these measures are designed to "inhibit terrorists' ability to evade detection using fraudulent identifications."
What will happen if you don't have a REAL ID by May 7th?
Noem stated before a Congressional panel that 81% of travelers already have identification that meets the REAL ID requirements. She also reported that TSA security checks will accept valid passports and tribal identifications as alternatives.
"Those who do not yet have an identification that complies with REAL ID law may be redirected to another line; they will have an additional step," Noem indicated. "But they will be allowed to fly," she added. "We will make sure it is as simple as possible."
Across the country, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices have extended their hours to accommodate the high demand. Despite this, some people have had to wait long hours in line to obtain a REAL ID.
There are five states that issue enhanced licenses
Some states offer as an alternative to the REAL ID what is known as enhanced driver's licenses (EDL) or enhanced IDs (EID).
These documents also meet the requirements for domestic flights and allow travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
Los estados que actualmente emiten estas licencias son:
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New York
- Vermont
- Washington
The EDL and EID carry an icon of the United States flag and the word "enhanced" at the top. They are not issued automatically; residents must explicitly request them when renewing their license.
What other documents will be accepted?
In addition to the REAL ID, TSA will accept the following forms of identification for domestic flights:
- U.S. passport
- Permanent resident card (Green Card)
- Identification with a photograph issued by a federally recognized indigenous tribe
- Valid passports from other countries
It is important to note that the REAL ID Act does not require this identification to access federal facilities where it is currently not required, nor does it prohibit the use of alternative documents such as a passport.
In recent weeks, the Department of Homeland Security launched television announcements to inform the public about the implementation of the measure. “These identifications keep our country safe,” Noem stated in one of those public messages.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Implementation of Real ID in the United States
What is the Real ID and why is it mandatory starting May 7, 2025?
The Real ID is an updated version of the driver's license or state identification card that meets federal security requirements. Starting May 7, 2025, it will be mandatory for boarding domestic flights, entering certain federal facilities, and accessing nuclear power plants in the United States. This measure aims to enhance security and make it more difficult to forge identity documents.
What documents are acceptable if I don't have a Real ID to travel by plane within the United States?
In addition to the Real ID, TSA will accept valid passports, permanent resident cards (Green Cards), and identifications issued by federally recognized tribal nations. Passports from other countries will also be accepted for domestic flights within the United States.
What happens if I don’t have a Real ID after May 7, 2025?
If you do not have a Real ID after the deadline, you may face delays at airport security checkpoints, but you will still be able to fly if you present another acceptable form of identification, such as a valid passport. Individuals without a Real ID will be directed to an additional line for verification.
How can I obtain a Real ID if I don't have one yet?
To obtain a Real ID, you must go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with the necessary documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and residency. It is advisable to do this as soon as possible to avoid long lines and delays. Check with local authorities to know the specific requirements for your state.
What is the impact of the Real ID on the immigrant population in the United States?
The impact of the Real ID is significant for the immigrant population, as undocumented individuals will not be able to board domestic flights without identification that meets Real ID requirements. This imposes a new obstacle for those without legal status in the country, limiting their ability to travel within the United States.
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