Sometimes procrastination pays off and the deadline for something shifts. That’s what's happening for legions of people who still haven’t gotten around to getting their Real ID which will soon be required for airline travel, as reported by MSN. The program was supposed to begin May 2023, which would give late adopters only six months to get the updated identification card. Now, the program has been delayed until May 7, 2025. (It’s the third time the deadline has been extended since the first ill-fated deadline of Oct. 1, 2020.)
If you’ve missed the last few years of information about the program from the Department of Homeland Security, here it is: anyone 18 years or older who is flying domestically will (eventually) need the Real ID driver’s license or, if you don’t drive, the equivalent identification card. Without the extension, there’s fear that millions of Americans would be grounded (by their airline, not their parents) and the travel industry would lose badly-needed revenue at a time when it’s already lost so much due to pandemic-related travel decline.
What even is Real ID?
It’s a way of making the various driver’s licenses across the country conform to a more unified document. The program began in 2005 and stems from increased security measures after the 9/11 attacks in 2001.
Can you glance at it and tell it’s a Real ID?
Yes. It will have a star (or a star in a circle) on it to differentiate it from a regular driver’s license. In California, it’s a golden bear with the star on its haunch, a state-endorsed cutie mark.
Is it hard to obtain?
It’s a time-consuming process at often already-beleaguered DMV offices nationwide. Applicants must provide original or certified documents that may be hard to locate and may need to be requested with several months’ lead time, such as a social security card, birth certificate or passport. The amount of paperwork is famously thorough. For instance, you have to bring two different documents proving your current address, as well as documentation giving your full legal name, date of birth, social security number and more.
Freaking out—what about the kids?
Nope. It's only needed by those 18 and over.
What if I don’t have it by the deadline?
You will be stopped at the security checkpoint, and you might cause a scene that will wind up on TikTok. But again, you now have two more years to get it.
Is the Real ID only for boarding aircraft?
No, it may also be required to enter certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants.
I’m not going to fly or visit a nuclear power plant. Am I good?
Probably. But you’ll feel sad when you’re the only one without a star on your license.
Does it operate like a passport?
No. You can’t use it for international travel, including border crossings into Canada or Mexico or international cruises.
What if I have an Enhanced Driver’s License?
You’re good! Those are for people in Vermont, Washington, Minnesota, Michigan and New York, so if you don’t live in those states and have never heard of an enhanced license before, just keep moving.
Coming out from my tin foil hat to ask if the gubment’s keeping all this info?
No. It’s just a program to make sure all licenses are issued using the same standards. There’s no national database being compiled.
What if I have other, really specific questions?
There’s a great FAQ section here.
How do I start the process?
Check regulations here (there’s a map of the US and you can click on your state to find out which documents it requires you to bring) and set up an appointment now. After all, May 2025 will be here before we know it.