Heads up everyone, enforcement begins May 7, 2025! Real ID was introduced under a 2005 Congressional act intending to set a “minimum security” standard for citizens’ IDs, including driving licenses.
The original implementation date was to have been 2020, but the pandemic made it difficult to proceed. USA Today gives good information below. For more information on REAL ID, visit www.dhs.gov/real-id.
Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay
When does Real ID go into effect?
The Real ID “full enforcement date” is Wednesday, May 7, 2025, according to DHS.
When will a Real ID be required to fly?
You or your loved ones need to have a Real ID compliant document, driver’s license, or identification card, by May 7, 2025. If you have another form of identification that is TSA-approved, like an up-to-date passport or a permanent resident card then you probably don’t need a Real ID compliant document.
Here are a couple of TSA-approved alternatives, if you’re on the fence about getting a Real ID.
- State-issued enhanced driver’s license
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Border crossing card
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation worker identification credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
How long does it take to get a Real ID?
It will take about two weeks, or 15 business days to get your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License from your state’s Motor Vehicle Department.
Enhanced driver’s licenses, which are only issued in a couple of states, including Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont, are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, DHS says.
How do I know if I have a Real ID?
All Real IDs will have a stamp on the right-hand corner to show that the identification document meets federal standards set forth by The Real ID Act of 2005. The symbol stamped on your Real ID card will vary, depending on which state you obtain your new identification card from.
What does a Real ID look like?
Your Real ID will have most, if not all of the information that’s included on your driver’s license. The only difference is the seal included in the right-hand corner.
Travelers unsure if their licenses are Real ID compliant can look to the upper right-hand corner of their driver’s license. If there is a small logo in the upper-right-hand corner, it’s likely a Real ID. Many licenses that are not federally compliant will include a message stating as such.
For example, a compliant license in Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania, and other states has a circle with a star inside it in the top right corner. Non-compliant licenses may say “FEDERAL LIMITS APPLY” or another message noting that it is not compliant with federal standards. In California, a compliant license will have a bear logo with a star on its rear.
Image by Afif Ramdhasuma from Pixabay
Travel Mishaps
Those who know me know I was in aviation for years! Mishaps happen even to experienced travelers. Would you know what to do if you were pickpocketed; had your passport stolen; became ill; were stranded due to natural disasters; were hacked; etc?
Ask yourself how you would respond and research what available services there are where you plan to travel. It’s wise to review the fine print of your insurance policies to know when and how you can get help.
Consider enrolling in STEP The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling outside the US and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This service is valuable in case of an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.
Whether you’re at home or traveling, having your plans in place is important. Let’s make sure you’re ready for situations you’ll face throughout life.
Feel free to pass my information along to people who matter in your life. A resource to get you started is my book The Living Planner (What to Prepare Now While You Are Living) is a resource for you. Here is a direct link to my shopping cart. Check it out HERE .
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“Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.” ― Marcus Aurelius ❣️ Lynn
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