The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, will require state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards to meet federal security standards for certain official purposes. These include accessing federal facilities, boarding commercial aircraft, and entering nuclear power plants.
Starting May 7, 2025, federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, will only accept REAL ID-compliant licenses and identification cards, which feature a star marking, at airport security checkpoints. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are also valid for these purposes, even without the star.
Travelers should ensure their identification meets the REAL ID requirements before the enforcement date to avoid disruptions when flying or accessing federal sites.
For more information, visit: dhs.gov/real-id.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
