Even if you don't have any immediate plans that require air travel this year, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reminding Americans that REAL ID enforcement will start in 2025!  

Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or other acceptable forms of identification (e.g., a valid passport or U.S. military ID), to fly within the United States. Individuals who are unable to verify their identity will not be permitted to enter the TSA checkpoint and will not be allowed to fly. This is critical for U.S. citizens who plan to travel to the 2025 Embalming & Restorative Art Seminar, Professional Women's Conference, Leadership Conference and NFDA International Convention & Expo, all of which take place on or after May 7, 2025. 

REAL ID-compliant licenses are marked by a star on the top of the card. Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and New York states issue both REAL ID and state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses, both of which are acceptable. Washington state issues enhanced driver’s licenses only. These documents will be accepted at the airport security checkpoint when the REAL ID enforcement goes into effect. Travelers who are not sure if their state-issued ID is compliant should check with their state driver’s license agency.

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act, a recommendation of the 9/11 Commission, establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards. The purposes covered by the Act are: accessing federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and, boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.

For more information on how to become REAL ID compliant, visit DHS.gov/Real-ID or check with your local state Department of Motor Vehicles.