Why is Real ID required in the United States? What it is and everything you need to know

The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was designed to establish federal security standards for state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses. The legislation was introduced in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, aiming to enhance national security and prevent identity fraud.

Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers and individuals accessing certain federal facilities will be required to present a Real ID-compliant license or an alternative form of federally approved identification, such as a U.S. passport. With the deadline approaching, residents across the country are encouraged to ensure they have the necessary documentation to avoid disruptions.

ALSO SEE: Is your tax refund delayed? Here’s how the IRS App 'Where's my refund?' can help you track it

What is Real ID, and why was it created?

Real ID is a federally approved identification standard that ensures all U.S. state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards meet enhanced security measures.

Congress passed the Real ID Act in response to concerns about fraudulent IDs being used to access federal buildings, nuclear power plants, and airplanes. The law requires that states verify key identity documents before issuing driver’s licenses and state IDs, making them more secure and harder to counterfeit.

Although many states initially resisted implementing Real ID requirements, all 50 states are now in full compliance and have been issuing Real ID-compliant licenses for several years.

How to get a Real ID in the US?

To obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, residents must visit their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Secretary of State’s Office in person.

Applicants will be required to present many documents to verify identity, Social Security number, residency, and lawful status in the U.S.

The required documents typically include:

1. Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, permanent resident card)
2. Social Security number verification (e.g., Social Security card, W-2, or SSA-1099)
3. Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, mortgage statement, or lease agreement)
4. Proof of lawful status (for non-U.S. citizens, such as a Green Card or visa documentation)

Each state has its own process and requirements, so applicants should check their local DMV website before visiting. Appointments may be required in certain states due to high demand as the deadline approaches.

Why Has the Real ID Deadline Been Delayed?

The Real ID enforcement deadline has been postponed multiple times, primarily due to state compliance issues and the COVID-19 pandemic. The original deadline was set for 2008, but due to challenges in implementing the new system nationwide, it was extended several times, with the most recent deadline now being May 7, 2025.

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), this additional extension has given state agencies more time to process applications and address any backlogs caused by pandemic-related DMV closures.

Despite these delays, the DHS has confirmed that no further extensions are expected beyond the May 2025 deadline.

What happens if you don't have a Real ID after May, 7, 2025?

If you do not have a Real ID or an alternative form of federally approved identification after May 7, 2025, you will:

• Be unable to board domestic flights within the U.S. unless you present a valid passport or other approved ID
• Be denied entry into federal buildings and secure facilities that require Real ID-compliant identification
• Face travel disruptions if you frequently use domestic air travel but do not have an alternative ID

For those planning to travel or visit federal buildings regularly, obtaining a Real ID before the deadline is highly recommended.