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Getting Your REAL ID: Preparing as a Traveler before May 7th Deadline

Writer's picture: Julie BellJulie Bell

Updated: 4 days ago



Traveling soon? Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant ID to board domestic flights or visit certain federal buildings. Don’t worry, it’s easy to get ready—here’s a quick breakdown!

What is REAL ID?


REAL ID is a law that makes sure your driver’s license or ID card meets higher security standards. If you plan to fly domestically or visit federal buildings after May 2025, you’ll need an ID that meets these standards.


Which IDs are REAL ID-Compliant?


In most states, you’re good to go if you have any of these:


  • A REAL ID card

  • Enhanced Driver License (EDL) or Enhanced ID Card (EID)

  • U.S. Passport

  • U.S. Military ID

  • Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

  • Tribal-issued ID

  • Employment Authorization Card (I-766)


Will My Current Standard ID or Driver's License Work For My Summer 2025 Vacation Plans?


No, if you have a standard driver’s license or ID card, it won’t work for air travel or get you through TSA for any scheduled trips after May 6, 2025. You’ll need to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant one if you want to fly or visit federal buildings.


With this in mind, it's important to plan accordingly to avoid any disruptions to your travel plans.


How to Get a REAL ID


Upgrading your ID or Driver's License is simple! Just visit your local DMV with these documents:


  • Proof of identity (e.g., passport or birth certificate)

  • Social Security number

  • Proof of residency (e.g., recent utility bill)


Make sure to check if your state has any additional requirements, as specific documents or policies can vary.


Quick Recap


  • REAL ID is needed for flights and federal buildings after May 7, 2025

  • You’re set if you have an EDL, passport, or another REAL ID-compliant ID.

  • Standard IDs won’t work for flights after May 6th, 2025

  • For most travelers, upgrading is easy—just visit your DMV with the documentation needed to show proof of citizenship and residency

  • For more information and state-by-state policies, visit this webpage shared by the Department of Homeland Security


Take a few minutes to check your ID before your next trip. If you need help, we're also here to guide you through it. As always, Travel Haven is here to help take away the stress of planning your next vacation so you can focus on your travels.


Reach out to Julie, your certified travel advisor, with any questions or travel needs. Call 408-663-5021 or email jbelltravelagency@gmail.com today!

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Julie Bell

Travel Haven

Meet Julie Bell - Your Certified Travel Advisor!

Julie Bell is a certified travel advisor with over 30 years of experience in customer service, sales, marketing, and travel services.

 

Passionate about helping clients turn their vacation and travel dreams into reality, she excels at finding personalized solutions and building long-term relationships by providing exceptional service throughout the entire booking process.

 

Outside of her work with clients, Julie is a devoted wife to her husband of 35 years, Ryan, and a proud mother of two adult daughters, Amanda and Jennifer. In her personal time, Julie enjoys traveling to popular destinations like the islands of Hawaii, visiting her youngest daughter in the Pacific Northwest, and spending quality time with her two horses.

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