Beginning May 7, 2025, US travellers aged 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification to board domestic flights. This requirement applies to all US passengers and is intended to strengthen national security.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
- REAL ID Act: The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to improve the security of state-issued identification documents.
- Enforcement Date: The enforcement of the REAL ID requirements for domestic flights will begin on May 7, 2025.
- Who needs a REAL ID: All US passengers aged 18 and older flying domestically need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification.
- What is a REAL ID? A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license will have a distinct star marking on the upper portion of the card.
- Alternatives to REAL ID: In addition to REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses, other acceptable forms of identification include U.S. passports, U.S. passport cards, DHS trusted traveller cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and U.S. Department of Defence IDs.
- Consequences of not having a REAL ID: Passengers who are unable to present a REAL ID or an accepted alternative may not be allowed to board domestic flights.
- International students and tourists: For domestic travel within the U.S., international students and tourists can continue to use their foreign passports as valid identification.
Please plan your travels accordingly.
