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 Reagan National for a flight with only a non-REAL ID drivers license after the new requirement takes effect?

A: Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (i.e. Passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.