On May 7, 2025, everything changes. We assume you already know this, but we’re going to remind you. Millions of Americans could face serious problems if their driver’s license or state ID doesn’t comply with Real ID regulations, because that, May 7, will be the first day this document becomes mandatory. As you may also know, Real ID is a new way to strengthen national security with much stricter requirements for documents that are impossible to counterfeit.
This program, approved in 2005 by the U.S. Congress, aims to strengthen national security by establishing stricter requirements for identity documents.
What is Real ID?
REAL ID is another bureaucratic requirement, as well as a new federal security standard that aims to be much stricter so that no one can counterfeit federal documents such as driver’s licenses or identification cards. It was proposed shortly after the fateful 9/11 attacks, and now, finally, the time has come for it to be mandatory for Americans, both for obtaining a new license and for entering federal buildings or commercial flights.
How long do I have to get it?
Officially, May 7th will be the first day the Real ID will be mandatory, and with the deadline approaching, authorities have reiterated the importance of all citizens checking if their driver’s license complies with the regulations.
How do I know if my ID has a Real ID?
It’s very simple: if your document doesn’t have a gold star in the upper right corner, you don’t have a Real ID and you’ll need to get a new document if you need to fly or enter federal buildings. On the other hand, if your license already has one, congratulations, you’ve gotten ahead of yourself!
What to do if you don’t have a Real ID?
If your current license doesn’t meet the Real ID requirements, you’ll need to go to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and present a series of documents to obtain a new ID. You’ll receive your license in just a few minutes.
The required documents are:
- Proof of identity (U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, or green card).
- Social Security number (SSA card, W-2, or tax return).
- Proof of residency (utility bills, lease, or bank statements).
Additionally, you’ll likely need to pay a fee of approximately $30, depending on your state.
What happens if you don’t have a Real ID after May 2025?
If you decide not to update your license before the deadline, you will still be able to fly within the U.S., but only if you present another form of federally accepted identification, such as:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Military ID
However, if you don’t have any of these documents, you won’t be able to board domestic flights or access federal facilities.
The deadline is approaching, and it’s so simple to implement that all citizens should be aware that these changes are being made for the common good and to further protect state services.
If you don’t have the gold star on your ID yet, it’s time to schedule an appointment at the DMV and update your license as soon as possible! Don’t wait until the last minute!