The deadline is approaching to get a REAL ID. It’s required for domestic travel starting this year.

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID “is a national effort to improve the integrity and security of state-issued driver licenses and identification cards, which in turn will help fight terrorism and reduce identity fraud,” according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

Documents that meet Real ID requirements are the driver’s license or identification card that each state issues, including Florida.

How do you know if your license or ID is compliant?

A REAL ID can be easily identified by a star inside a circle in the upper right corner of the card. If your driver’s license has this icon, it means it meets REAL ID standards. If not, you should apply for it as soon as possible at a DMV office.

What’s the deadline for getting a REAL ID?

Starting May 7, 2025, travelers in the U.S. will be required to comply with REAL ID regulations to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, travelers can’t board domestic flights without a REAL ID card unless they have a U.S. passport.

The regulation on domestic travelers follows a measure passed in 2005 to increase national security after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. It was due to go into effect on May 7, 2023, but DHS decided to give states more time to ensure people obtained the new identification. Florida began issuing REAL IDs in 2010.

What happens if you arrive at the airport without a Real ID?

If you go to the airport without a Real ID, passport or another acceptable piece of identification after May 7, the Department of Homeland Security says you “can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.”

The Transportation Security Administration states that fliers without acceptable identification will need to undergo additional security procedures.

These ID requirements apply to everyone age 18 or older, including people with TSA PreCheck. People whose identity cannot be confirmed or who refuse to complete the additional screening will not be able to pass through airport security, according to the TSA.

What documents do you need to get a REAL ID In Florida?

You will need to bring one of the following documents to establish your identity, proof of legal residence and date of birth , according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

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▪ Social Security Card or proof of your Social Security number.

Can you renew your driver’s license online with a REAL ID?

You’ll also need to go to a DMV office if you don’t yet have a REAL ID. If you already have one, you may be eligible to renew your Florida driver’s license online if you obtained your last license in person.