The US government has announced that starting from May, airline passengers must possess a Real ID to travel, or they may face delays in their journeys.
The US State Department reiterated on April 21 that the deadline for mandatory enforcement of the REAL ID Act will be on May 7, 2025. From that date onwards, passengers aged 18 and above will need to present the new Real ID, or alternative identification documents such as a passport or passport card, in order to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings and facilities.
The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 in response to recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. The purpose of this law is to enhance domestic security by establishing standardized identity verification systems in all 50 states. While the legislation was originally scheduled to take effect in 2007, the mandatory implementation date has been postponed multiple times.
Although US residents can still drive with their existing non-Real ID driver’s licenses and use old forms of identification in other situations, Real ID will be a necessary requirement for boarding for travelers who do not possess valid passports, passport cards, or other approved forms of identification.
To apply for a REAL ID, individuals must visit their local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) office. They can fill out the online application form in advance and upload the required proof documents. Afterwards, a personal visit to the DMV office is necessary to complete the application process.
According to data released by the Transportation Security Administration as of April 2025, approximately 81% of passengers passing through airport security checkpoints have been using driver’s licenses or passports that meet the Real ID requirements. However, many individuals still face the risk of not meeting the deadline for compliance with the new regulations.
This is a report by the news production team.