Is REAL ID’s deadline real?: Everything you need to know

The deadline to obtain a REAL ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities is May 7, 2025. After a few extensions already, the Transportation Security Administration has proposed a transition period of two years before full enforcement of the ID would take effect.

If this proposal is accepted, here’s what you need to know:

Q: Is the May 7, 2025 deadline for the REAL ID for real?

A: Yes, the TSA says the proposal does not extend the deadline. Travelers without the REAL ID or another form of acceptable ID, such as a passport or Global Entry card, could face delays at airport security checkpoints next year.

Q: Why the transition period?

A: This wiggle room is necessary because as of January only about 56 percent of state driver’s licenses and ID cards were compliant with REAL ID, according to the proposal. Officials are concerned about a surge of applicants before the May deadline that might overwhelm state agencies and cause delays in obtaining the ID.

Officials also fear long lines, confusion and frustrated travelers at checkpoints that might, in fact, increase security risks at the airport.

The proposal would give agencies flexibility by “explicitly permitting agencies to implement card-based enforcement in phases.”

Q: What happens if I don’t have a REAL ID after the deadline?

A:  If you can’t provide an acceptable form of ID at security checkpoints, the proposal includes possible plans where travelers might be issued warning notices. This may evolve into a “three-strikes” system where certain travelers would be turned away from checkpoints until their ID is updated.

Q: Do children need a REAL ID?

A: Children under 18 do not need to provide identification as long as they are traveling domestically with an adult with acceptable identification.

Q: Do I need a REAL ID to drive in California?

A: A REAL ID is not required to get a driver’s license, nor does it impact your ability to vote or register to vote.

Q: Where did the idea for the REAL ID come from?

A: The REAL ID Act was created after the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to establish minimum security standards for state-issued drivers’ licenses and ID cards for boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, accessing certain federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants.

The original deadline was October 2020, but it was postponed a few times due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ready to get a REAL ID? Here’s how in California — plus a tip on getting ahead of the line.