The REAL ID Act, established post-9/11, aims to enhance the reliability and accuracy of state-issued identification documents.
Starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. federal government will enforce the REAL ID Act, requiring travelers aged 18 and older to present a REAL ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Failure to comply may result in denied access or significant delays.
Here’s what you won’t be able to do without a REAL ID after this date.
Board Domestic Flights
Starting May 7, 2025, you will not be allowed to board a domestic flight within the United States using a regular driver’s license or state ID unless it’s REAL ID-compliant. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will only accept a REAL ID, a U.S. passport, or other approved alternatives at security checkpoints.
Acceptable alternatives include U.S. passports, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, military IDs, and Trusted Traveler cards. No exceptions will be made based on the nature or urgency of your travel. If you frequently fly for work, family visits, or emergencies, you must have your REAL ID ready.
Enter Federal Buildings and Courthouses
Access to secure federal facilities and courthouses will also require a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. If you have legal proceedings, job appointments, or official business at federal sites, you’ll be turned away without a compliant ID.
Some non-secure federal buildings may still allow entry with a basic ID, but for areas requiring security, a REAL ID will be mandatory. Plan ahead if you have any upcoming federal visits after May 7.
Access Military Bases
Military bases have always had strict security, but post-May 7, the requirements get even tighter. You will need a REAL ID or a Department of Defense ID to gain entry unless you have a passport or another federally approved ID. Even visitors attending family events, ceremonies, or scheduled tours will be denied access without it.
Simply showing a traditional driver’s license, even from the same state, will no longer work. Military families and contractors should especially double-check their IDs in advance.
Enter Nuclear Plant
Access to muclear power plants and other critical infrastructure sites will require REAL ID-compliant identification. This affects not only workers but also visitors, inspectors, or vendors who need to enter these restricted facilities. Without the proper ID, you will not be allowed entry under any circumstances.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) requires strict identity verification processes for such access, aligning with the requirements of the REAL ID Act. Companies in sectors like energy, defense, and research should prepare their employees for the change.
Rely on a Standard Driver’s License for Federal Identification
Your standard driver’s license or state ID without the REAL ID mark will not be enough anymore for federally mandated identity verification. This impacts activities like visiting certain Social Security offices, attending immigration appointments, and other federal services requiring identity proof.
While some everyday activities like voting or driving within your state won’t require a REAL ID, anything connected to federal jurisdiction will.
Travel with Minors Without a Compliant Adult ID
While the REAL ID requirement applies to travelers aged 18 and older, minors under 18 are not subject to this mandate. However, the accompanying adult must show a REAL ID or an approved alternative. TSA agents will not allow the child through security if the adult’s documents are non-compliant.
The TSA also recommends minors carry a passport or birth certificate for smoother screening. Lack of proper documents could cause delays, extra checks, or missed flights.
Attend Certain Federal Job Interviews
Some federal job applications now require candidates to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an approved alternative. Positions involving access to secure facilities, such as special agent or security roles, often have this requirement.
Without a REAL ID, you may be disqualified from the interview process or denied building access. Agencies like the U.S. Secret Service have already made this mandatory for applicants. Always check the job listing carefully to confirm if REAL ID is needed for your role.
Count on Last-Minute Grace Periods or Flexibility
Unlike in previous years, the Department of Homeland Security has made it clear that the May 7, 2025, deadline is final. No further extensions, postponements, or grace periods will be granted for travelers or visitors lacking a REAL ID.
Even if you plead your case or explain a misunderstanding, TSA and federal facility personnel will not allow you through without proper documents. Missing the deadline could severely limit your ability to travel, work, or attend key appointments. Procrastination this time around will have real, immediate consequences.
