Ready for Takeoff? Here's What You Really Need to Know About REAL ID in 2025

You’ve booked the flight. You’ve planned the perfect itinerary. You’ve even found the cutest carry-on bag. But there’s one crucial thing that could ground your domestic travel plans before you even reach the TSA line: 

Do you have a REAL ID? 

If you’re unsure—or if the term “REAL ID” still feels a little fuzzy—you’re not alone. As a travel advisor, I get this question all the time. And with the official deadline finally in effect as of May 7, 2025, it’s time to get crystal clear on what this means for you. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through: 

• What the REAL ID is (and isn’t)
• Who needs it and when
• How to check your ID
• Alternatives if you're not ready yet
• How I can help you prepare stress-free for your next flight 

Let’s get REAL (ID) so you can travel with confidence. 

What Is the REAL ID — and Why Should Travelers Care?

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to improve the security of state-issued identification following the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations. In essence, it sets stricter federal standards for driver’s licenses and ID cards. 

As of May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers 18 and older will need a REAL ID–compliant form of identification to board a domestic flight. 

This is NOT a new requirement. 

It’s just finally being enforced—after several pandemic-related delays. 

How Do I Know If My ID Is REAL ID–Compliant?

Here’s a quick way to tell if your current driver's license or ID meets REAL ID standards: 

Look for a star in the top right corner of your ID. 

It might look like: 

• A gold or black star
• A star cutout with a gold circle (common in California)
• A flag icon (used for Enhanced Driver's Licenses) 

If you don’t see a star or your ID is marked “Not for Federal Identification,” it won’t get you past TSA starting in 2025. 

What if I Don't Have a REAL ID Yet?

Don’t panic—you still have options. 

If your state issues Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (like Michigan, Minnesota, Vermont, New York, or Washington), these are acceptable alternatives and are usually marked with a U.S. flag icon. 

And here’s the biggest travel pro tip I can offer: 

A valid U.S. passport will always work—for both domestic and international travel. 

If you’re planning a vacation abroad (say, sipping wine in Tuscany or cruising the Greek Isles), a passport is your golden ticket. But even for flights from Chicago to San Diego, it’ll keep you moving. 

What the Press Is Saying: Fact vs. Fear

Recent headlines have reported that travelers without REAL ID can “still fly”—and that’s partially true. 

According to the Department of Homeland Security and TSA: 

• You can still fly without a REAL ID after May 7, 2025…
• But you’ll need another acceptable form of ID, like a passport 
• TSA officers may also subject you to additional screening, so don’t expect a smooth security experience if you’re not prepared 

In short: it's not worth the stress at the airport gate. 

Why This Matters for Your Next Vacation

Here’s why I’m sharing this: 

You deserve a trip that starts with excitement, not anxiety. 

Whether you’re taking a quick domestic getaway or finally checking off that big trip on your Live It List, making sure your travel ID is compliant is step one. As your travel advisor, I don't just help you find the right flights, resorts, and destinations—I help you avoid the costly, last-minute surprises that can derail your plans before they even begin. 

Insider Tip from a Travel Advisor: Plan Before the Airport 

I recommend checking your driver’s license today. It only takes a minute, and it could save hours (or even days) of stress later. 

If your ID isn’t REAL ID–compliant and you’re not planning to renew it soon, let’s talk passports. Not only do I help clients plan dream vacations—I help them with the details that make travel seamless, including passport renewals, expedited processing, and essential travel documentation. 

Let’s Make Your Next Trip Stress-Free 

Traveling should feel exciting, empowering, and effortless—not like a pop quiz at airport security. 

Contact me today to start planning your next adventure! 

Not quite ready to plan your trip yet? 

Join my Live It List Club and get travel tips, destination inspiration, and exclusive content—delivered straight to your inbox. 

Let’s make sure your next journey starts with confidence—and ends with a lifetime of memories. 

Live your List ~ Love your Journey, 
- Updated December 2025 -