May 7th REA: OD Act Deadline

By: Min Kim

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will begin to enforce the REAL ID ACT starting on May 7, 2025.

The REAL ID Act requires U.S. states and territories to issue driver’s license and non-driver identification cards that meet strict security requirements.

What is a REAL ID compliant license and ID?

Real ID complaint license and IDs are marked with a star on the upper portion of the card. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) and Enhanced Identification Documents (EIDs) are also compliant, and they are marked with an image of a U.S. flag and the word “Enhanced” at the top of the card.

Acceptable documentation starting May 7, 2025:

• A state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets REAL ID requirements

OR

Acceptable alternative forms of identification:

• U.S. Passport
• U.S. Passport Card
• Foreign government-issued Passport
• DHS trusted traveler card (i.e. Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST program)
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• USCIS Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or Card (I-766)
• Border Crossing Card

The above list of acceptable documents is a partial list as some other forms of IDs might prove acceptable alternatives for domestic travel. As always, given the evolving nature of this issue travelers should refer to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website (www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification) before traveling.