REAL ID mandate takes effect in United States on May 7
Identification law to affect domestic air travel and access to federal buildings
DUBAI: Beginning Wednesday, domestic air travellers and visitors to federal buildings across the United States will need to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification or an acceptable alternative such as a valid passport.
This long-anticipated federal mandate applies to all 50 states and stems from post-9/11 security reforms aimed at standardising and strengthening ID verification.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that the May 7, 2025 deadline will be enforced. In a video message, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem urged Americans to act promptly: “Get a REAL ID. Starting May 7th, you will need one to travel by air or to visit federal buildings.”
REAL ID will make America safer and more secure. Starting May 7, you will need a REAL ID to fly.
— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) May 5, 2025
Illegal aliens should not be allowed to fly in the U.S. UNLESS SELF DEPORTING. pic.twitter.com/BAqBJOyJVp
REAL ID Act
The REAL ID Act was signed into law in 2005 following a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission. It established minimum security standards for state-issued identification cards to prevent fraud and improve the reliability of personal identification. The rollout, initially planned for 2008, has faced delays due to political opposition, logistical hurdles, and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.
REAL IDs feature added security elements and can be recognised by a star or flag on the card. Cards without these symbols are not compliant. Several states also offer Enhanced Driver Licenses, which meet REAL ID standards and can be used instead.
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), 81% of passengers at airport checkpoints already present compliant IDs. Those who do not risk being turned away or subjected to additional screening procedures.
Who needs REAL ID
A REAL ID is required for anyone wishing to board a domestic commercial flight, enter certain federal buildings, or visit military installations. It is not necessary for driving, voting, applying for federal benefits, accessing healthcare services, or participating in court proceedings.
To obtain one, residents must visit their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and provide documents proving U.S. citizenship or legal presence, such as a birth certificate or valid passport, a verifiable Social Security number, and two proofs of state residency.
Non-citizens must prove legal presence with documentation approved by their state DMV.
Concerns and pushback
Despite years of lead time, several states are not fully prepared. Only about 40% of eligible residents in Kentucky have obtained REAL ID cards. Senator Jimmy Higdon and 27 other state senators have sent a formal letter to DHS Secretary Noem, requesting a delay in enforcement. “We’re seeing long waits and limited appointments,” said Higdon. “If she asked my advice, I’d say suspend it for a year.”
While the REAL ID Act does not make the new IDs mandatory, travellers without one will need to carry a passport, military ID, or another federally accepted form of identification starting Wednesday.
At regional offices across the US, long queues have been reported, with many residents unaware of the approaching deadline. Walk-ins face hours-long waits, and online appointments are increasingly difficult to secure.
Airports brace for impact
The timing comes amid broader air travel disruptions. Newark International Airport, one of the busiest in the country, has seen hundreds of delayed and cancelled flights due to FAA staffing shortages and outdated equipment. United Airlines has cut 35 roundtrip flights from its Newark schedule in response.
Heightened global tensions may also lead to stricter security measures at airports and federal facilities. “These IDs are designed to make identification harder to forge, thwarting criminals and terrorists,” Secretary Noem posted on social media over the weekend.