After several postponements (largely due to the global pandemic) the REAL ID will officially be enforced in all 50 states in the spring of 2025.
Most people know it will affect travel somehow, but it has business travelers, frequent flyers and travel managers asking: “Can you fly without a REAL ID?”
Don’t let 2025 sneak up on you.
Here’s everything you need to know about REAL ID, including how to get one.
What is a REAL ID?
REAL ID is a state-issued and verified identification card that replaces state-issued driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs. They only exist in US states and territories.
Where did REAL IDs come from — and why?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to create new security standards for how states and territories verify IDs.
In the past, applying for a state ID or driver’s license only required basic information from US citizens, such as name, date of birth, address and gender identity. These REAL IDs require much more information from individuals to verify their identity, including their social security numbers.
Where and when will REAL ID Be Required?
Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be required to:
- Board any federally-regulated commercial aircraft (unless you have another TSA-accepted form of ID)
- Access certain federal facilities and federal buildings (including military bases)
- Enter nuclear power facilities
As of May 7, 2025, travelers will no longer be able to show their traditional driver’s license or state ID at TSA security checkpoints. They will need proof of identification that meets REAL ID requirements.
This will be enforced for all domestic flights, including travel to and from:
- Contiguous states
- Alaska
- Hawaii
- Puerto Rico
- United States Virgin Islands
- American Samoa
- Guam
- Northern Mariana Islands
So, yes: you can still fly without a REAL ID specifically. They’re not mandatory and many states will continue to offer non-REAL driver’s licenses and identification cards.
However, you’ll need another kind of TSA-accepted identification to board a domestic aircraft.
Booking Business Hotels for Large Groups? We offer some tips.
What do I do if I don’t have a REAL ID?
Travelers can use a variety of other identification cards for domestic flights, including:
- U.S. passports
- U.S. passport cards
- Veteran Health identification cards
- Permanent resident cards
- U.S. Department of Defense IDs
Do I need a REAL ID to travel internationally?
No. The introduction of REAL IDs has no bearing on international air travel. International travel still requires that U.S. citizens show a valid U.S. passport at airport security checkpoints and borders.
Related: A Travel Manager’s International Travel Checklist
How do I know if I have a REAL ID?
