02/11/2024
The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID has been extended to May 7, 2025. Starting from this date, U.S. travelers aged 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification (such as a passport) to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities .
Here are some key facts about the REAL ID:
1. Compliance Rates: As of early 2024, only about 56% of U.S. IDs are REAL ID compliant. Many states are struggling to meet the upcoming deadline, with some states reporting compliance rates below 40% .
2. Identification Features: REAL ID-compliant licenses are marked with a gold or black star in the upper right corner. These IDs adhere to enhanced security standards designed to make them more difficult to forge .
3. Alternative Identifications: While REAL ID-compliant IDs will be necessary for federal purposes, travelers can still use other forms of identification, like a passport, for boarding domestic flights .
4. Background: The REAL ID Act was enacted in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations to enhance security standards for state-issued IDs .