Travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification will face security delays at airports nationwide starting May 7, as the TSA begins enforcement of stricter ID requirements established during the Trump administration.

At a Glance

• TSA will begin enforcing the REAL ID Act on May 7, 2025, requiring federally-approved identification for air travel
• Non-compliant travelers will face additional screening, delays, and possible denial at security checkpoints
• Currently, 19% of Americans still don’t have REAL ID-compliant identification
• Acceptable alternatives include passports, passport cards, and military IDs
• The security measure originated in the 2005 REAL ID Act and is now being fully implemented by the Trump administration

New Security Standards Taking Effect

The Transportation Security Administration is issuing urgent warnings to air travelers as the May 7 deadline for REAL ID compliance rapidly approaches. Beginning on that date, all domestic air travelers 18 and older must present either a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or acceptable alternative identification to pass through airport security checkpoints. This change implements the 2005 REAL ID Act, which established more rigorous security standards for state-issued identification documents as part of post-9/11 security measures.

TSA spokesperson Adam Stahl emphasized the Trump administration’s commitment to implementing these enhanced security measures: “Secretary Noem and the Trump administration are enforcing the 2005 REAL ID Act and regulations on May 7, as directed by Congress and the American people.”

As the May 7th REAL ID enforcement deadline approaches, make sure you’re ready. REAL ID or passport – it’s your choice. But come deadline day, expect to face delays & additional screening if you don’t have an acceptable form of ID.

Details: https://t.co/drmICHMz7D#REALID pic.twitter.com/nCVHua3aeX

— TSA (@TSA) April 16, 2025

Expected Travel Disruptions

Despite years of preparation and multiple deadline extensions, TSA estimates that approximately 19% of travelers still don’t have REAL ID-compliant identification. This lack of preparation could create significant bottlenecks at airport security checkpoints nationwide. TSA officials have been clear about the consequences: “Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (e.g., passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.”

“The Real ID requirement bolsters safety by making fraudulent IDs harder to forge, thwarting criminals and terrorists. TSA will implement REAL ID effectively and efficiently, continuing to ensure the safety and security of passengers while also working to minimize operational disruptions at airports.”, said Adam Stahl.

Travel expert Gary Leff warns about the cascading effects of additional verification procedures: “If there are additional identity verifications to go through, even calling over another TSA staff member to handle that takes time.” These individual delays can quickly compound during busy travel periods, creating significant wait times throughout the security process. The impact will likely be most noticeable at major hub airports where passenger volume is highest.

REAL ID looming deadline prompts TSA travel warning: 'Expect delays' https://t.co/oz6nkF2hhp

— Fox News (@FoxNews) April 18, 2025

How to Prepare for the New Requirements

TSA is advising all travelers to check their identification documents well before their travel dates. REAL ID-compliant licenses typically feature a star marker in the upper portion of the card. For those without a REAL ID, acceptable alternatives include U.S. passports, passport cards, Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler Program cards, military IDs, and certain tribal-issued photo IDs. Non-citizens self-deporting on international flights will not be denied boarding due to this requirement.

TSA spokesperson Lorie Dankers recommends travelers build in extra time for their airport arrivals after May 7. While the agency continues its public education campaign, officials anticipate the number of REAL ID holders to increase steadily over time.

Complete information about the requirements and how to obtain a REAL ID is available at TSA.gov/real-id. With just weeks remaining before implementation, travelers should act quickly to ensure they have proper identification to avoid becoming part of the expected airport congestion.