REAL ID in the U.S. Mandatory Starting May 2025

On May 7, 2025, the REAL ID will go into effect in the United States. Learn what it is, how to know if you already have it, and which documents you can use if you don’t. A clear and simple guide for immigrants.

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Starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. government will require all citizens and legal residents to have a special form of identification called a REAL ID in order to:

• Board domestic flights

  
  

• Drive legally (in some states)

  
  

• Enter federal facilities such as military bases or government buildings

  
  

This change was mandated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to increase national security, following a law passed in 2005.

Many people already have a REAL ID without realizing it. To check, just look at the top right corner of your driver’s license or state-issued ID card. If you see a gold star or a flag, you already have a valid REAL ID.

If your ID doesn’t have that symbol, you’ll need to renew it at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and request the REAL ID version.

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If you don’t have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you could face issues with:

• Flying within the U.S.

  
  

• Entering federal government offices

  
  

• In some cases, renewing your driver’s license

  
  

The TSA has warned that you may experience delays, extended screening, or even be denied boarding for domestic flights if you don’t present an accepted form of ID.

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Although it’s highly recommended to get your REAL ID as soon as possible, there are other valid documents you can use for travel or identification:

TSA-accepted alternative documents:

• U.S. Passport

  
  

• U.S. Passport Card

  
  

• Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL): only available in Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont

  
  

• Green Card (Permanent Resident Card)

  
  

• Trusted Traveler Cards: Global Entry, SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST

  
  

• Border Crossing Card

  
  

• Valid foreign passport

  
  

• PIV HSPD-12 Card

  
  

• U.S. Department of Defense ID

  
  

• Merchant Mariner Credential

  
  

• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

  
  

• Employment Authorization Document (EAD/I-766 from USCIS)

  
  

• Canadian Driver’s License

  
  

• Canadian Indian Status Card

  
  

Important: Make sure your document is current and in good condition. If you're unsure, consult with a DMV official or visit the official TSA website.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do immigrants also need a REAL ID?Yes. If you have legal status in the U.S. and want to fly or access federal offices, you’ll need a REAL ID or another valid document.

Can I still use my driver’s license without a REAL ID?It depends on your state and how you plan to use it. It may still be valid for driving within your state, but it won’t work for domestic flights or entry into federal buildings starting May 7, 2025.

Can I get a REAL ID if I have DACA or TPS?Yes. If you have valid legal documents like a work permit or EAD (Form I-766), you can apply for a REAL ID in most states.

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REAL ID will be mandatory starting May 7, 2025, for domestic travel and other important procedures. If you don’t have one yet, check your driver’s license and visit the DMV if you need to renew it. You can also use other TSA-approved official documents if you need to travel soon.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Avoid complications by making sure your ID is up to date.

Source: Diario Las Américas

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