The current REAL ID important date is May 7, 2025

Yes, the TSA has extended the REAL ID important date multiple times since the requirement was first introduced. The most recent extension moved the important date to May 7, 2025. On that date, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID to pass through airport security checkpoints in the United States — a regular driver's license will no longer work for domestic flights.

The important date has shifted several times over the past decade. It was originally set for 2013, then moved to 2016, then 2018, then 2020, and most recently extended to May 2025. The TSA has not announced any plans for another extension beyond May 7, 2025, though Congress could theoretically pass legislation to delay it again.

The reason for these repeated delays is that many states were slow to issue REAL ID-compliant documents. The federal government wanted to give states and residents more time to get compliant IDs in circulation before enforcing the requirement at airports.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, you must show a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID at airport security for domestic flights; a standard license will not be accepted.
  • The TSA has extended this important date multiple times since 2013, most recently to May 2025, but has not announced plans for another extension.
  • You can check whether your current ID is REAL ID-compliant by looking for a star symbol in the upper right corner of your license or by contacting your state's DMV.
  • If your ID is not compliant, you can renew it at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles; processing times vary by state but typically take two to eight weeks.
  • Even after May 7, 2025, you can still use a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID at airport security instead of a REAL ID-compliant driver's license.

How to tell if your ID is already REAL ID-compliant

The easiest way to check is to look at your driver's license or state ID. A gold or silver star in the upper right corner means your ID is REAL ID-compliant. If your license does not have this star, it is not compliant and will not work at airport security after May 7, 2025.

If you cannot see the star clearly or are unsure, you can contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly. Most states have a website where you can check your ID status, or you can call the DMV and provide your license number. Some states also allow you to check online through their portal if you have your license number and date of birth.

What you need to get a REAL ID-compliant license

To renew your driver's license as a REAL ID-compliant document, you will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person. You cannot renew online for REAL ID compliance, even if your state allows online renewal for standard licenses.

Bring the documents your state requires. Most states ask for proof of identity (your current driver's license or passport), proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Some states have additional requirements. Check your state DMV's website before you go to make sure you have everything.

The cost varies by state, but most charge between $20 and $50 for a REAL ID-compliant license renewal. Some states charge the same price as a standard renewal, while others charge a small fee for the REAL ID upgrade. Processing time also varies — some states issue the license on the spot, while others mail it to you within two to eight weeks.

What happens if you do not have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025

If you try to board a domestic flight after May 7, 2025 without a REAL ID-compliant license, a passport, or another accepted form of ID, you will not be allowed through the airport security checkpoint. You will be turned away and will not be able to fly that day.

The TSA will still accept several forms of ID other than a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. These include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant license but have one of these documents, you can still fly domestically.

Why the important date keeps changing

Congress set the original REAL ID important date in 2005 as part of the REAL ID Act, which required states to issue more find driver's licenses with standardized security features. The goal was to make it harder to use a fake ID to board a plane or enter a federal building.

States took longer than expected to update their systems and issue compliant licenses to residents. Some states had technical problems, others had budget constraints, and some had political disagreements about the requirement. Because of this slow rollout, the federal government extended the important date repeatedly to give states and residents more time.

Each extension was meant to be the final one, but Congress has passed new legislation each time the important date approached and it became clear that millions of people still did not have compliant IDs. The May 7, 2025 important date is the current target, but whether it will hold depends on how many people renew their licenses before then.

Other forms of ID that work at airport security after May 7, 2025

You do not have to get a REAL ID-compliant driver's license if you have another form of federal ID. The TSA accepts the following documents at airport security for domestic flights, regardless of the date:

  • U.S. passport or passport card
  • Military ID (active duty, retired, or reserve)
  • Tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe
  • Permanent resident card (green card)
  • Enhanced driver's license (available in some states)
  • Merchant mariner credential

If you already have a passport or military ID, you do not need to renew your driver's license for domestic air travel. You can use your existing ID at the airport. However, if you plan to drive across the Canadian or Mexican border, you may want a REAL ID-compliant license or an enhanced driver's license for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still fly domestically after May 7, 2025 if I only have a regular driver's license?

No, not at a commercial airport. A standard driver's license will not work at TSA checkpoints after May 7, 2025. You will need a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, military ID, tribal ID, or one of the other accepted forms of federal ID to pass through security.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly internationally?

No. For international flights, you need a passport regardless of whether your driver's license is REAL ID-compliant. The REAL ID requirement applies only to domestic flights and federal buildings.

How long does it take to get a REAL ID-compliant license?

It depends on your state. Some states issue the license on the spot when you visit the DMV. Others mail it to you, which typically takes two to eight weeks. Check your state DMV's website to find out the processing time in your area.

What if I have already renewed my license recently but it does not have the star?

Your license is not REAL ID-compliant. You will need to renew it again, specifically requesting a REAL ID-compliant license. When you go to the DMV, tell them you want to upgrade to REAL ID compliance. You may be able to renew early without paying a full renewal fee, depending on your state's policy.

Will the important date be extended again after May 7, 2025?

The TSA has not announced any plans for another extension. Congress would need to pass new legislation to delay the important date further. It is possible, given the history of extensions, but there is no indication that will happen.