For those navigating the ever-changing landscape of travel regulations, staying informed is essential, especially when it comes to ensuring smooth, stress-free journeys. Whether you are booking domestic flights for U.S.based staff, coordinating international missions, or managing complex itineraries for academic research, understanding the latest requirements can make all the difference.
With the introduction of the REAL ID Act, we want to ensure you understand what it is, why it matters, and how it could affect you.
What Is REAL ID?
REAL ID is a U.S. federal programme created to improve security by setting tighter standards for state-issued IDs, like driver’s licenses. Introduced by Congress in 2005 in response to post-9/11 concerns, it aims to create a safer and more consistent ID system across the country.
Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travellers aged 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an equivalent form of identification to board domestic flights or access federal facilities (source).
For international travellers visiting the U.S., the REAL ID Act does not change entry requirements, as passports and visas remain your go-to documents. However, if you are planning to connect to domestic flights within the U.S., it is important to know about these changes to avoid any surprises.
How Does REAL ID Affect U.S. Travellers?
For U.S. residents, having a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license is essential for keeping domestic air travel as straightforward as it has always been. If you prefer not to carry additional forms of ID, upgrading to a REAL ID is the simplest solution.
However, if you do not have or want a REAL ID, there are alternatives. Travellers can use other federally accepted identification instead, such as:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID (including dependent IDs)
- Permanent Resident Card
- Border Crossing Card
- Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV Card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Carrying one of these alternative IDs ensures seamless access to domestic flights and federal facilities without delays.
Does REAL ID Impact International Travellers?
Not directly. International visitors to the U.S. will continue to use their passport and visa for entry and for domestic flights within the U.S.
Steps to Prepare for REAL ID
To obtain a REAL ID, U.S. travellers must apply in person at their state’s licensing agency.
Required documentation typically includes:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number
- Two proofs of current address
- Proof of lawful U.S. status
Each state may have slightly different processes, so we encourage you to check your state’s DMV or licensing authority website for specific guidance.
If getting a REAL ID does not work for you, do not worry, as we have already mentioned, your passport or another federally accepted ID can be used for domestic travel instead.
For more details or to answer any lingering questions, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has a helpful FAQ section to guide you through the process.