The federal government has extended the deadline by which all air travelers 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of picture identification to fly within the United States. The new deadline is May 7, 2025. 

REAL ID Example

source: Virginia DMV

Passengers will need to either 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:

Alternative IDs

  • 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:

 

 

 

Q: When is the new REAL ID deadline?

A: The new REAL ID deadline is May 7, 2025. Visit the Transportation Security Administration 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.

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