ORLANDO, Fla. — Starting Wednesday, May 7, 2025, U.S. domestic travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board a commercial flight. This requirement stems from the REAL ID Act, which was enacted by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 attacks to enhance security measures in air travel.
Florida, which began issuing REAL IDs in 2010, has over 99% of its residents compliant with the new regulations. A REAL ID is identifiable by a gold star in the upper right corner of the driver’s license or ID card. However, many travelers may still find themselves unprepared as the deadline approaches.
Harriot Roberts, a seasoned travel agent with 57 years of experience, expressed concern about the potential chaos at airports. "I just talked with this man a minute ago and he’s going, ‘Oh my God, I don’t have a star on my driver’s license,’" Roberts recounted. "He said I think I’ll take my passport to go where I’m going." While a U.S. passport is not necessary for domestic travel, it serves as an acceptable alternative to a REAL ID.
Mark Howell, a regional spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), warned that travelers without a REAL ID will face additional scrutiny at security checkpoints. "You’re going to get some additional screening at the checkpoint, and they’re going to have to do some additional identity verification at the checkpoint," Howell stated, emphasizing that this could significantly delay the boarding process.
The REAL ID Act aims to standardize identification across states to prevent identity fraud and enhance security. To obtain a REAL ID in Florida, applicants must visit a local DMV or tax collector’s office with specific documentation: proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), a Social Security card, and two documents verifying their Florida address, such as a utility bill or tax form.
Roberts urged travelers to check their IDs ahead of time. "I’m saying to you - have you looked at your driver’s license today? Do it, because if you haven’t, then you need to get in line if you don’t have a passport," she advised. The cost for a REAL ID in Florida is $48, plus a processing fee, according to the Florida DMV website.
Many residents may not realize that they need to update their identification. In Brevard County, for instance, 6,163 residents with a driver’s license and another 142 with a state-issued identification card do not possess REAL ID-compliant documents. County Tax Collector Lisa Cullen is encouraging those affected to make appointments promptly to avoid complications.
"The only thing I can think of is someone whose ID has expired and not been renewed," said Volusia County Tax Collector Will Roberts, highlighting that expired IDs could be a significant issue for some travelers. While the REAL ID requirement is set to take effect, it is essential to note that children under 18 do not need a REAL ID to fly domestically. However, their accompanying adult must present an acceptable form of identification.
For those who may not have a REAL ID-compliant card, there are several alternative forms of identification accepted by the TSA, including a U.S. passport, Department of Defense ID, and various other government-issued IDs. Travelers can also use trusted traveler cards such as Global Entry or NEXUS. If someone attempts to board a flight without any acceptable identification, they may face delays and additional screening, or possibly be denied entry altogether.
As the deadline looms, residents are encouraged to gather the necessary documentation to ensure compliance. If someone has changed their name since their last ID was issued, they will need to provide legal documents, such as a marriage certificate or court order, to validate the change.
For those moving to Florida from another state, even if they possess a REAL ID from their previous state, they will need to go through Florida's verification process. "We do request that you have all the identifying documents again," Roberts explained, urging newcomers to prepare their documents before arriving in Florida.
While the REAL ID requirement is primarily aimed at enhancing security, it also underscores the importance of being prepared for travel. With the deadline just around the corner, Floridians are reminded to check their identification and ensure they have the proper documents to avoid any last-minute travel headaches.
In summary, starting May 7, 2025, every adult traveler must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or a valid passport, to board a commercial flight within the United States. The REAL ID is not only crucial for air travel but also necessary for accessing federal facilities, military bases, and nuclear power plants. With the deadline approaching, residents are urged to act swiftly to secure their identification and ensure a smooth travel experience.
