All the information you need to know about obtaining a Real ID

The Department of Homeland Security has announced that starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers will be required to carry a Real ID for domestic airport travel. This long-awaited change, originally set to take effect in 2020, has been delayed multiple times and will now finally be enforced in 2025.

The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in response to the events of September 11, 2001, to establish clearer standards for government-issued photo IDs. The goal of the law is to enhance security measures for commercial aviation by making it more difficult for individuals to obtain false documents.

All 50 U.S. states, along with Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, are issuing compliant Real IDs. However, just because your state issues Real IDs doesn’t mean you automatically have one. You may need to provide additional documentation, wait longer for processing, or pay a higher fee to obtain a compliant ID.

If you’re unsure whether your ID is compliant, you can check for a star or star cutout on the card. IDs with these markings are typically Real ID-compliant. If your ID is missing the star or has phrases like “federal limits apply,” it is not compliant.

Passengers without a compliant Real ID can still travel with a U.S. passport or other TSA-approved forms of identification. Travelers under 18 do not need to provide identification when accompanied by a companion.

The cost of obtaining a Real ID varies by state, ranging from approximately $10 to $85. It is recommended that individuals upgrade their IDs as soon as possible to avoid delays and ensure smooth travel experiences as the deadline approaches.