As May 7 approaches, a significant shift in identification requirements for domestic flights and federal buildings in the U.S. is set to take effect.
Starting on this date, travelers will be required to present a form of identification that complies with the REAL ID Act, a federal law aimed at enhancing security following the events of September 11, 2001.
Originally passed 20 years ago during the Bush administration, the REAL ID law has faced numerous delays and political opposition.
Many states across the political spectrum resisted compliance due to concerns over national identity card systems, a fear rooted in historical context since World War II.
Jay Stanley, a privacy-focused policy analyst at the American Civil Liberties Union, remarked, “Americans have never supported the idea of a national identity card.”
The Department of Homeland Security emphasizes that REAL ID is not a national ID but rather a set of national standards that do not involve creating a federal database of Americans’ personal information.
The transition to REAL ID will require individuals to provide more documentation to obtain a driver’s license that will allow them to fly domestically.
Justin Flagg, the communications director for State Senator Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan), noted the heightened interest in the topic, stating, “We did a virtual town hall on this topic about a month ago — it was the most popular virtual town hall we’ve ever had.”
As concern grows, many individuals are left wondering how to comply with the new regulations.
**What Is REAL ID?**
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or non-driver ID card compliant with federal REAL ID Act requirements.
While standard driver’s licenses will still suffice for tasks like voting and applying for benefits, a REAL ID is necessary for domestic air travel without a passport.
In New York, individuals can identify a REAL ID by the star symbol located on the upper right corner of their license.
Unlike standard IDs, which will not feature this star, enhanced IDs—allowing easier re-entry into Canada and Mexico—are also considered REAL ID compliant, marked by a waving American flag symbol.
It’s crucial to clarify that you aren’t required to have a REAL ID driver’s license to have REAL ID compliant identification.
Other acceptable forms of identification include enhanced IDs, U.S. permanent resident cards, and U.S. passports.
Therefore, certain informal references to “REAL ID” may encompass these other valid forms of ID.
**What Happens If You Don’t Obtain a REAL ID?**
Starting May 7, you will need REAL ID compliant identification to board domestic flights and enter several federal buildings, including courthouses and military installations.
If you possess a U.S. passport, you will not need to obtain a REAL ID.
However, frequent flyers or individuals who regularly visit federal facilities might find updating to a REAL ID beneficial, streamlining travel processes.
Attempting to board a flight without REAL ID after the deadline may still allow passage, albeit with additional security checks and potential delays as outlined by TSA guidelines.
**How to Obtain a REAL ID**
To acquire a REAL ID, individuals must visit their local DMV in person, equipped with documents that validate their identity, citizenship or lawful status, Social Security number, and two proofs of residency in New York.
The New York DMV provides an interactive guide to assist individuals in understanding the required documentation based on their unique circumstances.
Notably, when applying for a REAL ID, a Social Security number is necessary unless you possess documents indicating ineligibility for one, such as being on a student visa.
If you lack a New York State license, you’ll need to bring your physical Social Security card or a tax form with your number included, like a W-2 or 1099.
After processing through the DMV, you will be issued a temporary REAL ID, with the permanent card arriving in the mail approximately two weeks later.
However, note that this temporary ID will not permit you to board a flight, so ensuring possession of an alternative TSA-approved form is wise.
**Do You Really Need a REAL ID?**
For U.S. citizens who possess a passport, obtaining a REAL ID may not be immediately necessary, provided that they are comfortable carrying their passport for domestic travel.
State Senator Liz Krueger emphasized this option at a recent town hall: “Just remember to keep it with you more often.”
Nevertheless, utilizing a REAL ID offers practical benefits, including ease of replacement.
Losing a passport can lead to considerable inconvenience and expense, costing roughly $165 and typically requiring four to six weeks for replacement, in comparison to a REAL ID, which costs only $17.50 and arrives in under two weeks.
For transgender and intersex individuals, renewing passports has presented unique challenges, as past policies caused some to revert to gender markers assigned at birth.
In contrast, a state ID allows individuals to select their preferred gender designation without medical verification, easing concerns over gender identity.
Ethan Lin from Legal Aid’s LGBTQ Law and Policy Unit noted the confusion surrounding REAL ID: “There is a lot of misinformation circulating right now, because people are very fearful.”
For those who lack citizenship but have legal status, attorneys recommend pursuing a REAL ID.
Many individuals possess legitimate employment documents, such as work permits, which are identified as REAL IDs, providing a reliable form of identification.
However, unlike REAL IDs, work permits may expire, making it prudent for individuals to maintain updated identification.
Additionally, Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition, advised non-citizens to inform themselves before traveling.
Individuals holding green cards or visas must be aware of their rights at U.S. ports of entry, as border patrol retains ultimate authority.
“If you don’t need to make a trip, you shouldn’t make it,” Awawdeh cautioned, suggesting that non-citizens speak with immigration attorneys regarding their eligibility for REAL IDs.
In conclusion, as the May 7 deadline approaches, understanding and adhering to the new REAL ID requirements will be crucial for a seamless travel experience in the U.S.
Failure to comply could lead to increased airport delays or prohibited access to federal buildings, so ensuring you have the correct form of identification is of paramount importance.
image source from：https://www.thecity.nyc/2025/04/23/real-id-flying-passport-airport-travel-green-card-tsa-guide/
