REAL ID Deadline Is Coming: What You Need to Know Before May 7, 2025

Heads up, travelers! Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will begin enforcing the REAL ID requirement for all domestic flights in the U.S. That means if you’re flying within the country, you'll need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification to get through airport security.

So what exactly is a REAL ID? It’s a federally accepted version of your driver’s license or state ID that meets tougher security standards. You can spot it easily—it usually has a star on the top right. In California, it looks like a gold bear with a white star.

REAL ID DRIVER'S LICENSE - with bear and star marking

Federal Non-Compliant Driver's License – with “Federal Limits Apply” marking

How to Get a REAL ID in California

If you live in California and haven’t updated your license yet, don’t stress—there’s still time. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Gather your documents:

   • One document that proves identity (like a passport or birth certificate)

   • One document that proves your Social Security number (like your SS card or a W-2)

   • Two documents that prove your California residency (utility bills, lease, bank statement, etc.)

2. Fill out the REAL ID application online on the California DMV website.

3. Visit a DMV office in person with your documents. Appointments are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

   
   

Not in California?

If you're in another state, no worries—you’ll still need a REAL ID, but the requirements may differ slightly. Be sure to check your state's DMV website for the specific list of documents and instructions.

What if You Don’t Have a REAL ID by May 7?

If you’re planning to fly and don’t have a REAL ID by the deadline, you can still travel—but you’ll need to bring another form of TSA-accepted ID, like:

• A valid U.S. Passport or Passport Card

• A DHS Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)

• A U.S. military ID

• 
  

These documents are great backups, but let’s be real—carrying your passport just to fly from L.A. to Vegas isn’t the most convenient.

Don’t Get Caught Off Guard

After May 7, 2025, if you show up to the airport without a REAL ID or one of the alternatives, you won’t be allowed through security. So now’s a great time to double-check your ID and make an appointment if you need an update.

Got questions? Drop by your local DMV’s website or give them a call. Better to handle it now than deal with the headache at the airport later!