You Missed the REAL ID Deadline—Now What?

If you, like millions of Americans, have not obtained your REAL ID yet and plan to take a domestic flight soon, you will not be able to use your regular state-issued driver’s license. That’s because the new federal security standards require that your license to be REAL ID-compliant for domestic flights. Still, that doesn’t mean that you have to immediately scrap your travel plans.

For domestic flights, TSA has a list of acceptable identifications, including a valid US passport, that you may use if you do not have REAL ID. Please note that this list is subject to change at any time without notice, so TSA highly recommends that you check the list regularly before traveling.

You will also need to double-check with any federal facilities that you plan to visit to ensure that you have proper identification to enter a building where REAL ID is required for access.

Here are the five “W’s” of getting REAL ID, which is now in full effect.

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID is a federally mandated type of identification that meets enhanced security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. These IDs are designed to help prevent fraud and identity theft, with features such as facial recognition technology and anti-counterfeit markings.

Why get REAL ID?

As of May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another federally accepted form of ID (such as a passport) for flying domestically or accessing federal buildings. All states, the District of Columbia, and the five US territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, the US Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands) must comply with REAL ID by this date.

Who should get REAL ID?

REAL ID is recommended for everyone—especially if you fly often or visit federal facilities regularly (including federal courthouses, military bases, and nuclear power plants). You can still use your regular state-issued driver’s license or ID card for day-to-day activities, such as driving, voting, and entering state or local government buildings, but you need a REAL ID for domestic flights and access to federal facilities unless you have another federally accepted form of ID, such as a US passport. For domestic flights, you need only one valid form of ID: either a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative (not both).

Where can you get REAL ID?

Each state has its own process for applying for a REAL ID. Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent office with the proper documents.

All locations will require the following documents for REAL ID:

Full legal name: birth certificate or passport
Date of birth: birth certificate or passport
Social Security Number: your Social Security card or another official document containing the number (for example, your tax return)
Two proofs of your current address: for example, utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements
Proof of lawful status: US passport, birth certificate, permanent resident card, or other documents that prove US citizenship or lawful immigration status

When should you get REAL ID?

Now that the deadline for REAL ID has passed, it’s best to get started on your application pronto to avoid any further delays.