REAL ID deadline is fast approaching: Are you prepared?

[Geee]

The Hill

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP/NEXSTAR) — In roughly a year, you’ll need a special identification card, known as a REAL ID, in order to fly domestically, visit certain federal facilities, or enter a nuclear power plant.

Enforcement of these federally-approved IDs was set to begin in 2020, but was delayed multiple times because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Current guidance from the Department of Homeland Security says REAL ID enforcement will begin on May 7, 2025.

Luckily, you may already have a REAL ID-compliant card. If you don’t, you still have time to get one — but you may want to act fast.

 

What is a REAL ID?

After the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the federal government called for certain security standards for driver’s licenses and identification cards. In 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act to enact those standards.

New COVID-19 ‘FLiRT’ variants could mean a summer surge

While states had varying levels of standards pre-2005, proof of your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, legal residency, and two forms verifying your address are required before issuing a driver’s license or ID card.

Under the REAL ID Act, federal agencies such as TSA are not allowed to accept state-issued IDs unless they meet those standards. A REAL ID-compliant card is marked with a star, but more on that in a moment.