REAL ID is Here: What You Need to Know to Fly and Access Federal Buildings

The long-awaited REAL ID requirement is officially in effect across the United States as of today, May 7, 2025. After years of delays and building anticipation, travelers are now required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, a valid passport, or another federally approved form of identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.

The implementation of the REAL ID Act has triggered a surge of activity at DMVs across the country, resulting in long lines and widespread confusion regarding the specific requirements. This is particularly true among retired military personnel, who have expressed concerns about potential issues with their military IDs.

Fred from Oklahoma encapsulated these concerns in a recent email, highlighting the potential impact on retired military members. He referenced a story from April 2024 that raised alarms about a potential glitch in TSA software affecting the readability of indefinite expiration dates on retired military IDs. This glitch supposedly led to the suggestion that TSA might no longer accept these IDs, despite their validity for accessing military installations. Fred voiced the frustration of many retired military personnel, questioning why an ID that grants access to military bases would be rejected for domestic air travel. He expressed hope for clarification and resolution of this issue.

This article aims to clarify the new REAL ID requirements, address Fred’s concerns regarding retired military IDs, and provide a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a REAL ID if you still need one.

What is the REAL ID Act?

The REAL ID Act was enacted in 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations to enhance security standards for state-issued identification documents. The Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.

What’s Changed?

As of today, May 7, 2025, individuals aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, a valid passport, or another TSA-approved form of identification to board domestic flights or access certain federal buildings. REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs are typically marked with a star in the upper corner. If you do not possess one of these approved forms of identification, you may be denied entry at airport security checkpoints, even if you have been using your current ID for years.

New York Enhanced Drivers Licenses (EDL)

If you have a New York Enhanced Drivers License (EDL), it’s important to note that it may not have a star. Instead, it displays an American flag, and some newer EDLs may not explicitly state "Enhanced" on the front. New York EDLs remain valid for domestic flights and border crossings. The American flag serves as the official indicator of enhanced status in New York, regardless of the absence of a star or the word "Enhanced." If you are concerned about potential confusion with TSA agents, it is advisable to carry a passport as a backup or present the official NY DMV sample.

Retired Military IDs and the REAL ID Act

The good news for Fred and other retired military members is that Defense Department-issued IDs, including Common Access Cards, Uniformed Services ID cards, and older retiree and family member cards, remain acceptable forms of identification for domestic airline travel by the TSA. This includes IDs with "INDEF" (indefinite) expiration dates, despite previous concerns and software glitches.

However, some travelers have reported encountering issues at certain airports where the TSA system may misinterpret the "INDEF" date as an expired date. In such instances, TSA officers may request an alternative acceptable form of identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport. If you lack an alternative ID, a supervisor may review your document and potentially grant you access, but anticipate possible delays.

Therefore, it is crucial to emphasize that military retiree and dependent ID cards remain valid for domestic air travel as of today. If you have experienced problems in the past, it is prudent to carry a backup form of identification, if possible, to minimize potential disruptions.

What if You Don’t Have a REAL ID?

If you arrive at the airport with a standard driver’s license that is not REAL ID compliant and you lack a passport or other approved form of identification, you may encounter delays, undergo additional screening, or even be denied entry at the security checkpoint. The TSA strongly advises travelers to verify their identification before heading to the airport.

Global Entry and Other Trusted Traveler Programs

If you possess a valid Global Entry card, you are not required to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to fly domestically after May 7, 2025. The Global Entry card is a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler card that meets federal identification standards and is explicitly accepted by the TSA as an alternative to a REAL ID. You can use your Global Entry card at TSA checkpoints to verify your identity when flying within the United States. Other DHS Trusted Traveler cards, such as NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST, are also accepted as alternatives.

However, despite the official acceptance of the Global Entry card, some travelers have reported occasional confusion among TSA agents. To mitigate potential delays, consider carrying an additional form of identification, such as a U.S. passport or passport card.

Utilizing your Global Entry card eliminates the need to visit the DMV for a REAL ID while still complying with TSA identification requirements for domestic air travel.

How to Get a REAL ID

If you still require a REAL ID, you can initiate the application process even after the deadline. You can continue to use your current license for driving and non-federal purposes until you obtain a REAL ID.

Requirements vary by state, but typically include:

• Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
• Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form)
• Two proofs of residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, etc., bring legal proof of the name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Alternative Forms of Identification

A valid U.S. passport or passport card is always accepted for domestic flights. If you have one, you do not need a REAL ID to fly, but you will need it for federal facilities that require a REAL ID for entry.

Travel Tips

If you are traveling soon, double-check your identification and allow ample time at the airport. For the latest updates and a complete list of acceptable IDs, visit the TSA website.

You can still obtain a REAL ID after May 7, but you will not be able to use your old license for air travel until you do. In the meantime, you will need a valid passport or other approved ID to fly.

Conclusion

The REAL ID deadline has finally arrived, and it is understandable if you feel overwhelmed by the changes. Whether you are a frequent flyer or simply want to be prepared for an unexpected trip, ensuring you have the correct identification is now more critical than ever. If you are a retired military member, it is reassuring to know that your military ID remains accepted, but bringing a backup is always a wise precaution.

The key takeaway is to be informed, prepared, and proactive. By understanding the new requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and allowing ample time for processing, you can navigate the REAL ID implementation smoothly and avoid any potential travel disruptions.