Countdown to REAL ID Enforcement
Beginning May 7, 2025, all airline passengers 18 years or older will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another federally approved form of identification to board their flights and to access certain federal facilities. The Real ID driver’s licenses have a small star on them to indicate they meet federal regulations that establish minimum security standards.
source: Virginia DMV
Passengers can visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain a REAL ID (indicated by a star in the corner of the license) or plan to travel with another ID such as:
- U.S. Passport (booklet or card) or Foreign-issued passport
- Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card issued by Department of Homeland Security
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Permanent Resident (green) card
- Consult TSA's REAL ID webpage for the complete list
Links to license-issuing agencies in the Washington, D.C. region:
- D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles
- Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Q: When is the REAL ID deadline?
A: The REAL ID deadline is May 7, 2025. Visit the Department of Homeland Security site to learn more.
Q: What will happen to people who arrive at Dulles International for a flight with only a non-REAL ID drivers license after the new requirement takes effect?
A: Those travelers will be denied passage through the security checkpoint, putting them at risk of missing their flight. Furthermore, airlines won't be obligated to provide credits or refunds.