Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will need to be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was a response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the federal government establish standards for issuing identification sources, such as driver’s licenses. This legislation set minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards.
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Under the REAL ID Act, certain federal agencies cannot accept licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards for official purposes. These purposes include:
- Accessing certain federal facilities
- Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
- Entering nuclear power plants
To be considered REAL ID compliant, a license or card must display the REAL ID compliant star marking in the upper right-hand corner. However, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are acceptable alternatives. Most EDLs do not feature the star marking, but they are still valid for official REAL ID purposes.
If you live in Florida or Georgia, there’s a good change you already have a REAL ID. Florida began issuing REAL ID compliant credentials after January 1, 2010. All permanent licenses issued in Georgia after 2012 are REAL ID Compliant.
Travelers are encouraged to ensure they have the necessary identification before the deadline to avoid any disruptions in their travel plans.
