Ensure Smooth Travel After REAL ID Deadline: What You Need to Know

The REAL ID requirement officially takes effect on May 7, 2025, across the United States. Travelers are now required to present a compliant driver’s license, a valid passport, or another federally approved form of identification to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities.

The implementation of this requirement has resulted in busy DMVs and confusion about what documentation is necessary, particularly for retired military personnel. With the deadline quickly approaching, many individuals share concerns regarding their identification.

Fred, a traveler from Oklahoma, captured the sentiments of countless Americans in a recent email. He highlighted the anxiety surrounding potential fallout from new regulations, especially for older military members with expired identification.

Fred expressed, “With the May 7th deadline for everyone to have a REAL ID approaching, it may be time to do a story on the possible impact on retired military. Back in April 2024, a story made many of us nervous or angry. Apparently, there was some glitch in TSA software reading an ‘indefinite’ expiration date. Those of us over 65 have a retired ID that never expires.”

His email reflects the apprehension felt among senior veterans regarding their access to air travel. Let’s explore these changes, address Fred’s inquiries, and provide a comprehensive overview of how to secure a REAL ID if you still need one.

Understanding the REAL ID Act

The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, aims to enhance security standards for state-issued identification in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations. According to the law, anyone aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, a valid passport, or another TSA-approved form of identification to board domestic flights or access certain federal buildings. Lacking any of these forms of identification may result in being denied entry at airport security, even if you have routinely used your current ID.

Retired Military IDs: Still Valid for Air Travel

Good news for retired service members: Department of Defense-issued IDs, including Common Access Cards and Uniformed Services ID cards, remain accepted by TSA for domestic airline travel. This acceptance extends to cards with “INDEF” (indefinite) expiration dates, despite previous confusion and software errors.

However, travelers have encountered occasional challenges at some airports where TSA systems may misinterpret the “INDEF” date as expired. In such instances, TSA officers may ask for an alternative ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant license or a passport. If no other ID is available, a supervisor might step in to review the documentation and permit passage; however, be prepared for possible delays.

The crucial point is that military retiree and dependent ID cards remain valid for domestic flights as of today. If past experiences have led to difficulties, it is prudent to carry a backup ID when traveling.

Real ID Compliance for Everyday Travelers

If you arrive at the airport with a standard driver’s license that is not REAL ID compliant and lack a passport or another valid ID, you might face delays, extra scrutiny, or even be barred from entry at the security checkpoint. TSA officials strongly urge travelers to verify their IDs before heading to the airport.

For those holding a valid Global Entry card, there’s good news. You do not need to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to fly domestically after May 7, 2025. The Global Entry card is a Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler card, accepted by TSA as an alternative to a REAL ID for domestic travel.

Moreover, other DHS Trusted Traveler cards, such as NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST, are also accepted. Having a Global Entry card allows you to bypass the need to visit the DMV for a REAL ID while still meeting TSA identification requirements for domestic flights.

Important Note: Although the Global Entry card is officially accepted, some travelers report confusion among TSA agents. To prevent delays, it’s advisable to carry an additional ID, like a U.S. passport or passport card.

Steps to Obtain a REAL ID After the Deadline

If you still need to get a REAL ID, it’s important to understand the process. Even after the compliance deadline, you can apply for one and still use your existing license for driving and non-federal activities.

Requirements may vary by state, but typically, you will need:

Pro tip: If your name has changed due to marriage or divorce, be sure to bring legal proof, such as a marriage certificate or a divorce decree.

A valid U.S. passport or passport card is always an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights. If you possess one, you do not need a REAL ID to fly. However, you will need it for access to federal facilities where REAL ID is required for entry. When planning a trip, double-check your identification and allow ample time to navigate the airport.

Final Thoughts on REAL ID Compliance

The deadline for REAL ID compliance is now a reality, and it is understandable to feel overwhelmed by the changes. Whether you are an avid traveler or preparing for a spontaneous trip, ensuring you possess the proper identification is essential. For retired military members, reassurance comes from knowing their military ID remains accepted, yet having a backup ID is always wise.

How are you feeling about the new REAL ID rules since they have come into effect? We welcome your thoughts and questions as we navigate this important transition for travelers across the country.