The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended the REAL ID full enforcement date by 24 months, from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025. This means that starting May 7, 2025, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or ID to access federal facilities. This includes boarding commercial aircraft.
The REAL ID Act sets minimum standards for driver’s licenses and other types of identification cards. It was initially intended to take effect in 2008, but has been extended multiple times. The DHS extended the deadline twice during the COVID-19 pandemic.
You can apply for a REAL ID now. You do not need a REAL ID to drive or receive federal benefits. You can still use an Enhanced Driver License as identification when returning to the U.S. by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and some countries in the Caribbean. However, you still need a passport to travel internationally.
Which ID is right for me?
See sample Standard, REAL and Enhanced documents.
| ID FEATURES | STANDARD | REAL ID | ENHANCED |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can use for Photo ID purposes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Is acceptable for Federal REAL ID purposes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Can use to board a domestic flight (within the U.S.) | Not after May 7, 2025 | Yes | Yes |
| Can use to enter a Federal building or military base | Not after May 7, 2025 | Yes | Yes |
| Can use to cross U.S. border from Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries | No | No | Yes |
| Shows your residential address (where you live) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Requires an office visit to get one (if getting an ID for the first time) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Requires an office visit to replace or renew | No | No, unless you are changing from a Standard | No, unless you are changing from a Standard |
| Cost (in addition to regular transaction fees) | No | No | Yes – $30 |
| See allID card feesLicense Renewal FeesRenewal Fees | |||
| Displays on the front of the document | NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSESSee sample ‘Standard’ |  See sample ‘REAL ID’ |  see sample ‘Enhanced’ |
For most states, there is no additional fee for a REAL ID. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles.
To avoid undoubted last minute issues, and especially if you may need to fly commercial aircraft in the future (unexpected family emergencies, sudden work relocations, housing moves, etc.), obtain your Real I.D. now and avoid the long last minute DMV lines.
Given the multiple, years-long deadline extensions to obtain a Real I.D., and the changing access criteria with the various types of government I.D.s, stay tuned to the Bulletin for updates as warranted.
BNI Operatives: situationally aware.
As always, stay safe.
The Beacon Bulletin 