People Are Freaking Out Over This NEW Airport Security Rule

We are already a few months into 2025 — can you believe it? But if you have upcoming travel plans this summer that include flying, you’ll want to read this.

Orlando International Airport

Sometimes, flying is the only option, but due to an upcoming airport security change, it may cause more headaches! For TSA, ID requirements to get on that flight are changing, and you need to make sure you have the new requirements.

On May 7th, anyone who flies in the U.S. will need to provide a different type of identification to get on an airplane. You’ll need a REAL ID seal on your state-issued identification documents unless you have a valid passport.

©Department of Homeland Security

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress way back in 2005 to establish national standards for state-issued identification cards to enhance security. It was initially supposed to go into effect in 2008, but the deadline has been extended several times to give states the chance to comply. Now, over ten years later, the final deadline is finally here — May 7th, 2025.

©Department of Homeland Security

What is REAL ID anyway? The REAL ID is a special seal that you’ll see on your driver’s license or other state-issued identification. All states, the District of Columbia, and the five U.S. territories are now REAL ID compliant and issuing REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses and IDs.

MCO Reserve line

If you haven’t secured your new ID yet, you’ll want to head to your local DMV. Each state has a few different requirements to receive yours, so you will want to look up what documentation you’ll need to have with you to get your Real ID. For exact requirements, visit your state’s licensing agency website. There is also an additional fee to add the REAL ID seal to your license. Don’t forget that it can take a week or more to receive your new ID in the mail, so account for that for your upcoming trip.

Orlando Sanford

If you don’t have a REAL ID on or after May 7th, you can still fly, as long as you have a valid passport. For more travel news, make sure to follow AllEars.net.