
This rule does not change the REAL ID deadline.
WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2025 — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today released a final rule outlining how federal agencies will implement REAL ID requirements in phases. Federal agencies, including TSA, will enforce REAL ID beginning on the established deadline—May 7, 2025. After May 7, only state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards meeting REAL ID Act security standards will be accepted for federal purposes, such as air travel. This rule allows federal agencies flexibility in enforcement, considering security, operational factors, and public impact.
Agencies using phased enforcement must coordinate their plans with TSA and publish them online. TSA will share details about its phased enforcement on TSA.gov.
“The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 to improve identification security following 9/11,” stated TSA Administrator David Pekoske, “makes identity verification a cornerstone of security. I urge anyone using a driver’s license or state ID for federal access or air travel to ensure it’s REAL ID-compliant. We are working with the public and state licensing authorities to ensure a smooth transition to REAL ID enforcement starting May 7, 2025.”
TSA continues to encourage travelers to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state ID, or another acceptable form of identification before May 7, 2025 to prevent airport security delays.
The REAL ID Act, a response to a 9/11 Commission recommendation, sets minimum security standards for state-issued licenses and IDs accepted by federal agencies for air travel, federal facilities, and nuclear power plants. Enforcing the REAL ID Act and its regulations enhances document security and identity verification.
For more information on REAL ID, please visit [link removed].
SOURCE Transportation Security Administration
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