With less than a month until the Real ID deadline, Americans across the country are scrambling to book DMV appointments before new federal travel rules go into effect.
What’s Happening: Real ID Becomes Mandatory for Domestic Flights
Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require travelers aged 18 and older to show a Real ID-compliant license or an acceptable alternative to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) first introduced the Real ID Act in 2005 to enhance identification standards after 9/11. The federal government delayed implementation multiple times—but this time, DHS officials insist the deadline is final.
“It’s crunch time,” said Nick Ewen, senior editorial director at The Points Guy.
How to Know If You Have a Real ID
Look at your current state-issued ID or driver’s license. A Real ID features a star in the upper-right corner—which may appear as:
- A white star inside a gold or black circle
- A solid gold or black star
- A star inside the outline of a bear (California)
Cards without these markings—especially those stating “Not for Real ID purposes”—will no longer be accepted for airport screening or federal facility access after the deadline.
Appointment Backlogs Frustrate Travelers
As demand surges, many state DMVs are overwhelmed.
- In New Jersey, residents report no available appointments statewide.
- Some users say only 3 a.m. appointment refreshes yield results—and those get booked in seconds.
- In Kentucky, appointments are booked out six weeks in advance.
“We’re scrambling. We have a nonrefundable trip booked after the deadline and can’t get an appointment,” said Olivia DeMattio, a New Jersey resident.
DMV wait times and appointment availability vary by state. Colorado, for example, began issuing Real IDs in 2009 and continues to offer same-day appointments at some locations, according to the state’s DMV director.
What You Need to Bring to Get a Real ID
To apply, you’ll typically need to provide:
- Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two documents proving state residency
Each state sets its own requirements. DHS provides a state-by-state guide with links to local DMV sites where you can check required documents and schedule an appointment.
What If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t obtain a Real ID by May 7, you’ll need to show another federally approved ID at TSA checkpoints, such as:
- A valid U.S. passport or passport card
- A DHS-trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, etc.)
- A U.S. military ID
- A Veteran Health Identification Card
- An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), available in select states like New York and Michigan
Temporary paper IDs or standard licenses without Real ID markings will not be accepted.
Why Real ID Matters
The Real ID Act aims to create uniform standards across states to prevent identity fraud and improve airport security. Despite its security intentions, critics argue the rollout lacks flexibility for citizens.
“The government needs to listen. We’re being told we can’t travel, yet there are no appointments available. That’s not right,” said DeMattio.
State-by-State Compliance: Are You Ready?
As of April 2025, 81% of U.S. air travelers carry a Real ID-compliant form of identification, according to TSA. However, as of early 2024, over 124 million Americans still had noncompliant state-issued IDs, per DHS estimates.
States Leading in Preparedness:
- Colorado: Offering Real IDs since 2009, minimal appointment delays
- Minnesota, New York, Michigan: Offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) as a Real ID alternative
- California: Accepting walk-ins at many DMV branches
Final Reminder: Don’t Wait
If you haven’t secured your Real ID yet, act now:
- Check your ID for a star marking
- Gather required documents
- Visit your state DMV site to book the earliest available appointment
“We don’t want travelers to miss their flights,” said TSA spokesperson Lorie Dankers. “But those without proper ID will face delays.”
May 7, 2025, marks a major shift in domestic air travel requirements. Avoid last-minute panic by securing your Real ID or alternative today.
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