These Americans may be in luck: Here are the 5 states exempt from May 7 REAL ID deadline

REAL ID deadline is here: What travelers need to know before flying after May 7 - Starting Wednesday, May 7, the REAL ID deadline officially takes effect across the United States. That means from now on, if you're flying within the country or planning to enter certain federal buildings, you'll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card. If your ID doesn’t meet the new standards, you’ll be asked to show another TSA-approved identification document — or you won’t be allowed to board.

This new rule goes back to the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The act set minimum security standards for state-issued IDs, as recommended by the 9/11 Commission. It’s been nearly two decades in the making, but now it’s finally happening.

What is REAL ID and why is it being enforced now?

REAL ID is a type of state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets federal security standards. After the 2001 attacks, federal lawmakers wanted stronger ways to verify identity. In 2005, they passed the REAL ID Act, which created uniform requirements for how states issue IDs.


Now, nearly 20 years later, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is fully enforcing it. The original deadline has been pushed back several times — most recently due to the pandemic — but now May 7, 2025 is the firm date.

If you're wondering whether your current driver’s license is REAL ID-compliant, just look for a star symbol on it. It might be black or gold, filled in or outlined. According to The Hill, if you see that star, your ID is good to go.

What if I live in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington?

Residents of five states have had a bit of a head start. Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington all issue what's called Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) — and those are also acceptable for boarding domestic flights and crossing U.S. land or sea borders.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Washington only issues EDLs, not standard REAL IDs.
  
  
• Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont offer both REAL IDs and EDLs.
  
  

So if you're in one of these states and already have an EDL, you're covered — no need to get a separate REAL ID.

What documents do I need to get a REAL ID now?

If you still need to apply for a REAL ID, you’ll need to visit your local DMV (or make an appointment online, depending on your state). You’ll be asked to bring several documents:

• Full legal name
  
  
• Date of birth
  
  
• Social Security card
  
  
• Two proofs of address (like utility bills or lease agreements)
  
  
• Proof of legal presence in the U.S. (passport, birth certificate, green card, etc.)
  
  

It’s important to bring original documents — photocopies might not be accepted. Each state has slightly different requirements, so it’s a good idea to check your DMV’s website before you go.

Can I still fly without a REAL ID after May 7?

Yes, but only if you have one of the alternative TSA-approved forms of identification. These include:

• U.S. passport or passport card
  
  
• Foreign government-issued passport
  
  
• Department of Defense ID
  
  
• Permanent Resident Card
  
  
• DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
  
  
• Veteran Health Identification Card
  
  
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  
  
• Tribal-issued photo ID or Enhanced Tribal Card
  
  
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
  
  
• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
  
  
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
  
  

So if you have a passport or one of these IDs, you're still able to fly within the U.S. without a REAL ID. But for many travelers, having a REAL ID is just more convenient — especially if you don’t want to carry your passport for a domestic trip.

Where will I need a REAL ID besides the airport?

REAL ID isn’t just for flying. According to the Department of Homeland Security, you’ll also need a REAL ID or equivalent to access:

• Military bases
  
  
• Nuclear facilities
  
  
• Certain federal buildings that require ID for entry
  
  

It doesn’t apply to places like post offices or Social Security offices — just higher-security federal facilities.

What should I do now if I still don't have a REAL ID?

If you’ve missed the deadline but don’t need to fly or visit a federal facility right away, you’re not in trouble. You can still apply for a REAL ID at any time.

But if you have upcoming travel and don’t have a REAL ID, now’s the time to double-check your documents. You can use your passport instead, but if you travel frequently or don’t want to carry your passport, it’s worth getting the REAL ID as soon as possible.

Bottom line: Don’t get stuck at security

The REAL ID deadline is here, and the rules are real. From May 7, 2025, every traveler age 18 and over will need to show a REAL ID-compliant license or other TSA-accepted ID to board a domestic flight in the U.S.

Make sure you know what kind of ID you have. If you’re not sure, look for the star symbol. If it’s missing, head to your DMV and bring the required documents listed above.

And if you’re in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, or Washington, check whether your EDL qualifies — chances are, you’re already compliant.

FAQs:

1. What is the REAL ID deadline for domestic flights?
The REAL ID deadline for flying in the U.S. starts on May 7, 2025.

2. Can I still fly without a REAL ID after May 7?
Yes, if you use another TSA-approved ID, like a passport or military ID.