What Is the REAL ID Act and Why You Need It

The REAL ID Act was passed by the U.S. Congress in 2005 and sets minimum federal security standards for driver’s licenses and identification cards issued by U.S. states and territories.
Simply put: if you receive a driver’s license or state ID and want it to be recognized for federal purposes (such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building), it must comply with REAL ID standards.

Why It Was Introduced

  • After the events of September 11, 2001, the 9/11 Commission recommended strengthening identity verification to prevent the use of fake or unreliable documents.

  • The law increases security by requiring more thorough validation of identity, legal status, Social Security number, and residence.

  • It also ensures that federal agencies do not accept non-compliant licenses for access to airports, federal buildings, and other secure facilities.

How It Looks and How to Recognize It

  • A REAL ID-compliant license typically has a star symbol (★) in the upper right corner — usually gold or black, depending on the state.

  • Visually, it looks similar to a standard state driver’s license, but the issuance process involves stricter documentation and verification.

What REAL ID Is Used For

  • Domestic air travel within the U.S. — You will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another accepted federal ID to board a domestic flight.

  • Entry to federal buildings and secure facilities — Many U.S. government buildings require REAL ID for access.

  • Uniform security standards — REAL ID helps to prevent fraud by establishing consistent nationwide identification requirements.

How to Get One and Required Documents

Requirements vary by state, but generally you must provide:

  • Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, etc.)

  • Proof of Social Security number (SSN)

  • Two documents confirming your residential address (utility bills, bank statements, etc.)

  • A photo and signature, as with any driver’s license

  • In most states, an in-person visit to the DMV is required.

If Your License Is Not REAL ID–Compliant

A non-compliant license may result in:

  • Being unable to board domestic flights without another accepted ID (such as a U.S. passport)

  • Denied access to certain federal buildings

  • However, your license will still be valid for driving and for most everyday identification purposes within your state.

Important Dates

  • The law was signed on May 11, 2005.

  • Implementation deadlines were delayed several times.

  • In many states, REAL ID requirements for domestic flights and federal building access began applying in May 2025.

Useful Notes

  • REAL ID is not mandatory for everyone. If you don’t fly and don’t plan to enter federal facilities, you can continue using a standard state license.

  • Most states issue two types of IDs: standard and REAL ID-compliant. Standard IDs typically include a note such as “Not for federal identification.”

  • Alternatives to REAL ID exist — for example, a U.S. passport is also accepted for flights and federal access.

  • Critics argue that REAL ID may raise privacy concerns or function as a de facto national ID.

What This Means for You

If you live in or travel within the United States:

  • Check whether your license has a star marking indicating REAL ID compliance.

  • If not, and you plan to fly or visit federal buildings, consider upgrading to a REAL ID ahead of time.

  • Gather required documents early, as DMV appointments and processing may take time.

  • If you do not need federal access, a standard license may still be sufficient — just be aware of the limitations.