Flying After May 7? Here’s What You Need to Know About the REAL ID Requirement
REAL ID required to fly by May 7th! Be prepared for your next flight & know your options!
After years of delays, the enforcement of REAL ID is finally happening. Starting Wednesday, May 7th, 2025, travelers will need a federally approved form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal buildings.
To some, this may be old news since Congress passed the REAL ID Act back in 2005 after the 9/11 onlinemission determined that it was too easy for people to obtain a driver’s license.
If you don’t have one yet, now is the time to prepare! Here’s what this means for you and how to make sure you’re ready.
Here are the federally approved forms of identification accepted starting May 7th, 2025:
- Real ID
- Passport
- Military ID
- State Issued Enhanced Driver’s License (only offered in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington)
*All forms of ID must be valid if used for traveling or entering federal buildings. Passports are still required for International travel.
What is Real ID & what does a REAL ID look like?
The REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets increased federal security standards. It looks similar to a regular license but includes a star in the top right corner.
Do I need a REAL ID to fly in 2025?
No. The REAL ID is optional if you have another accepted form of ID. Anyone over the age of 18 who plans to fly domestically, enter certain federal buildings, or access nuclear facilities will need a REAL ID, a valid Passport, a Military ID, or a State-Issued Enhanced Driver’s License.
Visit your state’s DMV website to make an appointment and see exactly what documents are accepted. Some DMVs allow document pre-check online.
How to get a REAL ID & documents needed for REAL ID:
Each state may impose additional requirements, so checking with your local DMV website before heading in person for an appointment is important. However, most states require:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or valid passport)
- Proof of Social Security number (SS card or W-2)
- Two proofs of address (utility bill, lease agreement)
- Legal name change documentation (if applicable, like a marriage certificate)
Note that if you’ve been married twice or more, you may also need to provide ALL original marriage certificates to show a paper trail of name changes, regardless of whether you’re divorced.
Important: If you already have a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a REAL ID to fly domestically.
REAL ID application & where you need to go to get one:
The process for getting a REAL ID varies by state. For example, Pennsylvania residents who are pre-verified may be able to apply online and receive their REAL ID by mail. Others can visit a REAL ID Center for same-day issuance or a regular PennDOT location for document verification and delivery within 15 business days.
If you’re in another state, check with your local DMV to see what’s required in your area — some may need appointments or only issue REAL IDs at certain locations.
Head to DHS.gov to find a location near you.
How much will a REAL ID cost?
The cost of a REAL ID varies by state, but you can typically expect to pay two separate fees:
- A one-time upgrade fee (often $30–$60)
- A renewal or extension fee, depending on when your license expires
In some states, upgrading to a REAL ID automatically extends the expiration date of your license. For example, if you have two years left on your current license, those years might be added to a new 4-year term, giving you 6 years before renewal. This isn’t the case everywhere, so check with your state’s DMV for specifics.
Payment methods may vary by location. Some DMVs require checks or money orders, while others accept cards. Always confirm your local office’s accepted payment types before heading in.
Whether you’re planning a trip or just want to avoid last-minute stress at the airport, it’s worth double-checking your ID now. May 7, 2025, will be here before you know it.
Safe travels, Hipsters! Don’t wait until it’s too late!
If you’re still unsure whether you need a REAL ID or what documents to bring, head to your state DMV’s FAQs or visit DHS.gov for the full breakdown.
