How to check the real ID status: What happens to travelers without real ID after May 7? Explain the new rules for domestic travel in the United States
The updated ID requirement stems from post-9/11 laws, and despite years of delays, enforcement finally began.
Understand the real ID task
The True Identity Act, signed in 2005 by then President George W. Bush, was a national security measure after the 9/11 committee emphasized the vulnerability of how to obtain state-issued IDs.
The law requires stricter documents to prove legal status, identity and residency before the state can issue federally recognized IDs.
Starting May 7, the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) will no longer accept licenses for lack of unique star markings, which means compliance with actual ID requirements.
According to a Fox News report, travelers without a compliant ID must carry a valid passport, permanent resident card, military ID or enhanced license issued by a selected state.
New rules for US airports
Although the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a phased law enforcement approach, officials confirmed that anyone who lacks any documents that meet the ID may refuse at the airport security department. The TSA demonstrates the potential of a two-year adjustment period, during which passengers may face higher screening or receive warnings rather than directly refusing to board the plane.
True ID will also become mandatory for access to other federal facilities and nuclear power plants, which intensifies the urgency of compliance. However, critics argue that the rule raises questions about personal privacy and federal overreach.
Application process and documentation requirements
In order to obtain a real ID card, an individual must visit their local motor vehicle department and provide documents that verify their full legal name, date of birth, social security number and legal status of residence.
According to the Fox News report, two separate documents are also needed to confirm state residence rights, such as utility bills or bank statements.
In some states, an individual who recently renewed his license may already have a real ID that matches the card that can be identified in a star in the upper corner. Those who are unsure of their status are advised to use local DMV verification.
Political and public reaction
The implementation without dispute has not disappeared. Although it was originally passed under President Bush, the real ID law has seen bipartisan delays, including during the 19th Date pandemic.
Now, as law enforcement approaches, conservative voices are questioning why it must be used now.
Kentucky representative Thomas Massie expressed concern about civil liberties, believing that real ID cards create “serious risks to freedom” without providing meaningful security benefits.
Former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin added her criticism, questioning the urgency of the current administration’s rollout.
Still, others, including Republican Representative Mark Alford, insisted that it was time to comply. “This law was passed 20 years ago. It’s time to stop dragging your feet to get into the DMV,” he said in a public statement.
Changes in government law enforcement methods
Unlike the legal and political struggles surrounding Obamacare, which still face challenges even around prevention services such as cancer screening, the actual ID laws are now moving towards full implementation, with relatively less resistance from federal authorities.
According to TSA officials, the goal is to improve national security by making IDs harder, which they see as crucial to Obamacare’s preventive health measures. With law enforcement personnel arranged, agencies remained consistent and Americans were urged not to wait until the last hour.
For those planning to fly after May 7, the advice is clear: check your ID status now, or risk losing your flight.
FAQ
What is a real ID? Why do you need it?
A real ID card is a federally approved form of identity that is designed to enhance national security. Following the 9/11 attack, the Real ID Act of 2005 was authorized to strengthen the process of issuing state IDs and driver’s licenses.
When will the real ID requirement take effect?
The execution of the actual ID card began on May 7, 2025. From then on, passengers must propose a form of identity that is truly ID-compliant to board a domestic flight or access certain federal facilities.
