Americans rushing to grab last-minute appointments as May 7 enforcement begins!
Get ready for a potential airport headache this summer! The long-delayed REAL ID requirement kicks in on May 7, leaving many travelers scrambling to update their IDs before vacation season.
Starting Wednesday, TSA will no longer accept state-issued IDs that aren’t REAL ID compliant at security checkpoints. The new rule affects everyone 18 and older, even if you’re a TSA PreCheck member.
“I waited until two weeks before the deadline and now I’m panicking,” admits Florida mom Jennifer Thompson. “The earliest DMV appointment I could find was three days before my flight to Chicago!”
Jennifer’s not alone. The deadline’s approach has caused panic in many states with high demand for appointments, leaving some travelers worried they’ll be grounded.
What Exactly Is REAL ID?
The gold-starred ID cards (or bear-marked in California) were mandated by Congress back in 2005 following 9/11 Commission recommendations. The enhanced security standards make fake IDs harder to forge.
After nearly two decades of delays, the Trump administration is finally enforcing the law. “Secretary Noem and the Trump administration are enforcing the 2005 REAL ID Act and regulations on May 7, as directed by Congress and the American people,” said Adam Stahl, TSA Senior Official.
Don’t Panic! You Have Options
If you’re flying next week and don’t have your star-marked license yet, take a deep breath! Passports are still an acceptable form of identification for both domestic and international air travel, and most travelers already have compliant ID.
The Transportation Security Administration reports 81% of people approaching airport checkpoints already have REAL ID-compliant identification, though readiness varies significantly by state.
New Jersey appears to be lagging behind with the lowest compliance rate in the nation at just 17%, while other states are faring better.
What To Bring To The DMV
If you need to upgrade before your next trip, be prepared! You’ll need to check your state’s driver’s licensing agency website for exact documentation requirements. In general, most states require:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
- Social Security card
- Two documents proving your address
- Proof of any name changes
No REAL ID? Here’s What Happens
Without a REAL ID or alternative acceptable identification when traveling, you could face “delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint,” warns TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein.
Remember, REAL ID cards aren’t just for flying — they’re also required for accessing federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and boarding commercial aircraft.
If you’re traveling soon and concerned about meeting the deadline, consider bringing a passport as backup ID at airport security checkpoints to avoid potential travel disruptions.
Sweet bonus for deadline day travelers: Krispy Kreme is marking the REAL ID deadline with a free doughnut giveaway on May 7, no ID or purchase required!
Learn more about REAL ID requirements at TSA.gov/real-id.