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Deadline for REAL ID enforcement arrives, learn strategies if you lack one

Airport screening for U.S. air travelers aged 18 and above now mandatorily requires the presentation of a REAL ID. Here's what the airport experience may look like if you possess one or if you don't.

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U.S. Air Travelers Above 18 Years Old Now Need Real ID for Travel: Airport Procedures for Those...
U.S. Air Travelers Above 18 Years Old Now Need Real ID for Travel: Airport Procedures for Those with and Without

No More Mr. Nice TSA: Mike Lee Slams CBP One App ID Acceptance, Calls for VALID Act

Deadline for REAL ID enforcement arrives, learn strategies if you lack one

Listen up, flyers! You better get that REAL ID or find an alternative photo ID fast, 'cause the TSA ain't playing around. Senator Mike Lee, R-Utah, is having none of this CBP One app nonsense, and he's got his sights set on the VALID Act.

With the REAL ID requirements now in full effect, all you 18-year-olds and up who plan to fly from a U.S. airport or enter certain federal buildings will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID to board a U.S. commercial aircraft. That's right, the TSA means business.

You can spot a REAL ID by its golden star in the upper right-hand corner. But don't worry, mate, if you ain't got one, the TSA accepts more than just state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards. For example, a U.S. passport, a DHS trusted traveler card, or even a U.S. Department of Defense ID will do the trick.

But what if you're still clueless about the whole REAL ID thing? No sweat, just find all the acceptable forms of ID you need right here. And don't fret over potential delays at the TSA checkpoints, but do expect them if you're unprepared.

Don't rush, though. The deadline for obtaining REAL IDs was moved back due to the good ol' COVID-19 pandemic. But remember, time's a-ticking. Check out your state-specific requirements if you still need to get that REAL ID. The cost varies by state, but it's worth it to bypass those extra screening measures at the airport.

The VALID Act aims to prevent the TSA from accepting the CBP One app as a form of ID, so let's hope that gets passed soon. Until then, keep that golden star in mind and don't forget to pack your acceptable ID when you fly.

[1] "Some States See REAL ID Crowd Rush, Others Quiet as Deadline Looms" (Fox Business, April 10, 2025)[2] "Air Travelers Without REAL ID to Face Extra Screening, but Will Be Allowed to Fly for Now, DHS Says" (Fox Business, April 10, 2025)[3] "Frequently Asked Questions About REAL ID" (U.S. Department of Homeland Security)

  1. Lawmakers, such as Senator Mike Lee from Utah, are pushing for the VALID Act to prevent the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) from accepting the CBP One app as a form of ID.
  2. With the REAL ID enforcement now underway, travelers aged 25 years and older who wish to fly from a U.S. airport or enter federal buildings will need a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative ID.
  3. Wurtsbaugh, who is preparing for a trip, has been researching the lifestyle changes needed for travel, including the requirements for obtaining a REAL ID when flying, to avoid any travel delays caused by insufficient identification.

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