The long-awaited deadline for the federal ID requirements in the US has finally arrived after two decades. Here are five important points to consider before you travel.
1. What is an actual ID?
In a move to enhance national security following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the Actual Identity Act was enacted on May 11, 2005, by President George W. Bush. This legislation set new standards for IDs, including driver’s licenses, across the nation.
Starting on May 7, 2025, American adults will need a compliant ID not just for flying on federally regulated planes, but also to enter federal buildings and nuclear power facilities. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), if your state-issued driver’s license or ID isn’t compliant after this date, it won’t be accepted at airport security.
GOP lawmakers are emphasizing that the deadline is fast approaching.
2. What other IDs are accepted?
From May 7 onward, travelers will need a real ID to fly domestically, and should use a state-issued ID or license. However, there are other accepted forms of identification for domestic flights. It might be a good idea to check with your local DMV to confirm if your ID meets the new standards.
- State-issued Extended Driver’s License (EDL) or Extended ID (EID)
- US Passport or Passport Card
- DHS Trusted Traveler Card (like Global Entry)
- Department of Defense ID, including those for dependents
- Permanent Resident Card
- Border Crossing Card
- Accepatable photo IDs from federally recognized tribal nations
- HSPD-12 PIV Card
- Passport issued by a foreign government
- Canadian provincial driver’s license and certain Northern Individuals Canada Cards
- Transport Worker Identification Credentials
- US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Merchant Mariner Qualification
- Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC)
3. What happens if I don’t have an actual ID?
No need to freak out! If you don’t have a compliant ID, bring along your passport or another accepted form of ID. Passengers, even those with TSA Precheck, might need to navigate additional screening if they don’t have an ID that meets the actual ID requirement.
4. What happens during the screening?
TSA officers may require passengers without a compliant ID to go through a verification process for their identity, which could involve providing their name and current address. Once identified, they can proceed to the security screening but might undergo additional checks.
If a passenger can’t provide acceptable ID or refuses additional verification, they won’t be allowed through to security.
5. How do I get the actual ID?
If a traveler has another form of ID, bringing an actual ID isn’t mandatory, but it’s advisable according to the law. To obtain an actual ID, visit your state’s DMV with two pieces of documentation showing your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, and residency, along with proof of legal status.
The TSA doesn’t require children under 18 to have ID when traveling with companions, so minors won’t need an actual ID to fly.
