Q: What is REAL ID?
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. These purposes are:
• Accessing certain federal facilities
• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Entering nuclear power plants
Q: When will REAL ID be enforced?
The enforcement date is May 7, 2025.
Know why it’s important to get your REAL ID
Starting in May 2025, all individuals 18 years and older will need a REAL ID to:
Board domestic flights
Access certain federal facilities like military bases and courthouses
Enter nuclear power plants
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license that meets specific security standards. Compared to a standard driver’s license, a REAL ID provides enhanced security protections, including more thorough verification of identity documents when applying.
At a minimum, you must provide the following information when applying for a REAL ID:
1. Full legal name
2. Date of birth
3. Social Security number
4. Documents showing two proofs of address at your main residence
5. Lawful status
Make sure you are REAL ID ready by May 2025.