New rules are going into effect that will change the air travel requirements for millions of domestic passengers in the United States.
Under the REAL ID Act, all adults will need to present compliant identification to board a domestic flight. That means starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need an enhanced driver’s license, U.S. passport, or another REAL ID-compliant document
Not sure what this means for you? You’re not alone.
The REAL ID Act was signed into law in 2005, but full enforcement has taken two decades. Now, there’s understandably a lot of confusion surrounding the new requirements.
That’s why we spoke with attorney Christopher Migliaccio for a quick Q&A.
Based in Texas, Migliaccio is a well-traveled professional who’s been supporting clients navigating family law, estate planning, and ID requirements for almost two decades. He’s the founder of Warren and Migliaccio LLP.
Read on to get Migliaccio’s take on the incoming REAL ID requirements, find out how to secure a REAL ID if you don’t already have one, and learn how you can stay on top of your IDs using Trustworthy's Family Operating System®.
What Is REAL ID?
Answer: REAL ID is a federally mandated identification standard that enhances security requirements for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
It was established under the REAL ID Act of 2005 as a response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, aiming to prevent identity fraud and strengthen national security.
How Is REAL ID Different From Other IDs?
Answer: Unlike a standard driver’s license, a REAL ID-compliant card must meet strict federal security standards.
It is verified with additional documentation, such as proof of legal residency and Social Security verification.
You can easily identify a REAL ID by the star in the upper corner of the card, which indicates compliance with federal requirements.
Why Is This Rule Being Implemented?
Answer: The federal government is enforcing REAL ID to standardize identification security across all states, ensuring that IDs used for federal purposes meet stringent verification processes.
This move is intended to reduce identity fraud and enhance security in federally regulated spaces such as airports and government buildings.
After Several Delays, Is REAL ID Really Happening Now?
Answer: Yes, as of now, the Department of Homeland Security has set the enforcement date for May 7, 2025.
While previous delays were largely due to the pandemic and logistical challenges, there are no current indications of another postponement.
Travelers should prepare as if the deadline is final.
What Can You Expect Without a REAL ID?
Answer: Without a REAL ID after May 2025, you won’t be able to board domestic flights using your driver’s license.
Instead, you’ll need an alternative form of federally accepted identification, such as a passport, military ID, or DHS-approved travel card. This requirement also applies to entering federal buildings and nuclear power plants.
How Do You Get a REAL ID, and How Long Will it Take?
Answer: To obtain a REAL ID, you’ll need to visit your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) with required documents, including proof of identity (passport or birth certificate), Social Security card, and two proofs of residency (such as utility bills or a lease agreement).
Processing times vary by state, but it’s best to apply well in advance of the deadline to avoid last-minute delays.
How Do You Know If You Already Have a REAL ID?
Answer: Most REAL IDs have a star in the upper-right corner of the card.
If your driver’s license or state-issued ID does not have this, it is likely not REAL ID-compliant, and you’ll need to apply for an upgraded version if you plan to use it for air travel or federal purposes.
Besides Flying Domestically, Where Else Might You Need a REAL ID?
Answer: Beyond airport security, a REAL ID is required for entry into certain federal facilities, such as military bases, nuclear power plants, and some government buildings where ID verification is necessary.
However, you do not need a REAL ID to vote, apply for federal benefits, or drive.
What's Your Advice to Anyone Who Hasn't Secured a REAL ID?
Answer: If you haven’t obtained your REAL ID yet, don’t wait until the last minute. Schedule an appointment with your DMV as soon as possible to avoid long wait times and potential processing delays.
If you plan to travel frequently, having a REAL ID can prevent unnecessary headaches at the airport. For those who already have a valid passport, a REAL ID may not be immediately necessary, but it’s still a good option for convenience.
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Stay on Top of Your IDs with Trustworthy
You don’t want to run the risk of getting turned away at a gate and missing your next flight. That’s why it’s critical you act now to ensure your compliance with the upcoming REAL ID requirements — and Trustworthy can offer a helping hand.
Trustworthy’s secure Family Operating System® enables you to upload and create digital versions of all your important family documents.
You can seamlessly onboard family passports to your driver’s license, insurance documents, proof of address, bank statements, and everything in between. You’ll know exactly where all the necessary documentation lives if you need to apply for a REAL ID.
Trustworthy’s Autopilot tool helps you name and categorize each document you upload into your digital vault, and can even extract key data from your IDs to auto-populate relevant fields when you’re working in your digital vault.
Security is foundational to the Trustworthy platform, and so your IDs are always under lock and key. Trustworthy uses robust password recipes, two-factor authentication, hardware keys, and bank-level AES 256-bit encryption.
That being said, collaborative features enable you to share access permissions on a granular level — enabling you to send adult children access to their digital IDs or share important documents with trusted professionals.
Ready to learn more? Join Trustworthy for free and start preparing for the REAL ID deadline.
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