The Real ID Act of 2005 is a federal law that establishes standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act was passed by Congress in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and it aims to improve the security of the United States by making it more difficult for terrorists and other criminals to obtain false identification. The Act requires states to verify the identity and legal status of individuals applying for driver’s licenses or identification cards, and it also requires states to electronically share databases with each other in order to verify the information provided by applicants.
The Real ID Act has been controversial since its inception, as many states and civil liberties organizations have opposed the Act’s requirements, arguing that they are costly and burdensome. In addition, some states have refused to implement the Act’s requirements, citing concerns about privacy and the potential for misuse of personal information. Despite this opposition, most states have become compliant with the Act’s requirements, and enforcement has begun for certain federal facilities.
Starting on October 1, 2021, a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will be required to board a domestic flight within the United States. This means that if you do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued identification card, you will need to present an alternative form of identification, such as a passport or military ID, in order to board a domestic flight.
The final phase of the Real ID Act’s implementation, regarding identification documents accepted for boarding flights, is scheduled to take effect on May 7, 2025. Until then, individuals without a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will still be able to fly domestically, as long as they present an alternative form of identification. However, after May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant forms of identification will be accepted for boarding domestic flights.
Overall, the Real ID Act is an essential step toward improving the security of the United States. By establishing minimum standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, the Act aims to make it more difficult for terrorists and other criminals to obtain false identification. While the Act has faced opposition and challenges, it has also improved the security of our nation’s transportation systems.
DHS Extends Full Enforcement Date for REAL ID Act
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced its intention to extend the full enforcement date of the REAL ID Act by 24 months, from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025. The extension is necessary due to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the ability to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. Many state driver’s licensing agencies were forced to take steps such as automatically extending expiration dates and shifting operations to appointment-only in response to the pandemic, hindering progress on REAL ID compliance.
Under the new regulations, federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will be prohibited from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet the federal standards established by the REAL ID Act after the enforcement deadline. Starting on May 7, 2025, every traveler 18 years of age or older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another TSA-approved form of identification for domestic air travel.
Passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. These standards include incorporating anti-counterfeiting technology, preventing insider fraud, and using documentary evidence and record checks to ensure the identity of the person applying for the document. The extension will give states additional time to ensure their residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card.
All 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and four of five U.S. territories covered by the REAL ID Act and related regulations are issuing REAL ID-compliant driver’s
What is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act of 2005 is a federal law that establishes security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act requires states to verify the personal information provided by individuals when applying for these documents, implement security features on the documents, and share electronic databases with other states. The Act also makes various modifications to U.S. immigration law.
When will REAL ID be enforced?
The enforcement date for REAL ID is currently scheduled for May 7, 2025.
What happens when REAL ID enforcement begins?
After the enforcement date, federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will be prohibited from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet the security standards established by the REAL ID Act. This means that individuals will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or another TSA-approved form of identification to access federal facilities, enter nuclear power plants, and board commercial flights in the United States.
Are all states issuing REAL ID compliant cards?
DHS is working closely with all states and territories to ensure that they are compliant with the REAL ID requirements by the May 7, 2025 deadline. As of March 26, 2021, 55 states and territories are fully compliant with the REAL ID requirements, and all states are on track to begin issuing compliant licenses and IDs by the enforcement date.
How do I get a REAL ID?
To obtain a REAL ID, individuals will need to visit their state’s driver’s licensing agency and provide documentation showing their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and lawful status in the United States. States may have additional requirements, so individuals should check with their state’s driver’s licensing agency for more information.
If an individual’s Social Security Administration account card is not available, what other documents can be used to verify their SSN?
If an individual’s Social Security Administration account card is not available, they may present any of the following documents bearing their SSN: a W-2 form, a SSA-1099 form, a non-SSA-1099 form, or a pay stub with their name and SSN on it.
How do I know if my license or identification card is REAL ID compliant?
REAL ID-compliant cards will have a marking on the upper top portion of the card, such as a star or a flag. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and will not be accepted as proof of identity for boarding commercial flights.
When will I need to change how I travel domestically?
Beginning May 7, 2025, all U.S. residents will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license, identification card, or another TSA-approved form of identification to access federal facilities, enter nuclear power plants, and commercial board flights. The card must be REAL ID-compliant unless the individual uses an acceptable alternative document such as a passport, passport card, or state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License.