Still No REAL ID? These 5 states offer alternative travel IDs after May 7 — Here's what you can use

Time of India

06-05-2025

REAL ID Requirement Set for Nationwide Enforcement
Live Events
Five States Offer Enhanced Alternatives
TSA Lists Acceptable Identification
U.S. Passport
U.S. Passport Card
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
Permanent Resident Card
Border Crossing Card
State-issued EDLs and EIDs
Tribal-issued photo ID cards
Foreign government-issued passports
Public Awareness and Next Steps
FAQs
What is the REAL ID Act?
When does the REAL ID requirement take effect?
As the federal REAL ID deadline draws closer, travellers across the United States are preparing to comply with the new identification requirements set to take effect on Wednesday, May 7.However, for residents of five specific states, alternative identification options remain available, sparing them the need to obtain a REAL ID, at least for now.Enacted in 2005 following a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission, the REAL ID Act mandates that all state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards must adhere to heightened federal security standards.Starting May 7, 2025, adult passengers boarding federally regulated commercial flights, entering certain federal buildings, or accessing nuclear facilities must present a REAL ID-compliant card or an approved alternative, as mentioned in a report by USA Today.While this change will apply to the majority of U.S. citizens, several identification forms — including U.S. passports, permanent resident cards, foreign-issued passports, and certain tribal identification cards — remain valid for air travel and federal access under Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines.In a key exception, five U.S. states — Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington — continue to issue Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) or Enhanced IDs (EIDs), which are accepted by the Department of Homeland Security as REAL ID-compliant alternatives.These enhanced credentials not only fulfill federal travel requirements but also serve as proof of citizenship, allowing for land and sea travel to neighbouring countries such as Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean nations without the need for a passport, as per a report by USA Today.It is important to note, however, that not all identification cards issued in these states are automatically enhanced.Applicants must explicitly choose an EDL or EID when applying or renewing their state-issued license or ID.For air travellers uncertain about compliance, the TSA maintains a comprehensive list of acceptable identification documents beyond the REAL ID.These include:Children under the age of 18 travelling with an adult are not required to present identification for domestic flights, offering some relief for families during the transition period.Federal authorities have undertaken an extensive public awareness campaign over recent years, urging residents to prepare for the REAL ID enforcement date. Airports, DMV offices, and state agencies have also played a significant role in spreading information on documentation needs and timelines.Residents of non-exempt states who have yet to upgrade their driver's license or obtain an alternative travel document are encouraged to act immediately to avoid last-minute disruptions.Lines at Department of Motor Vehicles offices are expected to increase as the May 7 deadline approaches.As the REAL ID travellers standard becomes the new norm for domestic air travel, it is crucial for passengers to confirm their documentation status ahead of their next trip.While five states provide flexibility through EDL and EID issuance, the vast majority of Americans will now need to meet updated federal ID requirements to navigate U.S. airports and federal facilities without delay.The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, sets federal standards for the issuance of state driver's licenses and ID cards. It was recommended by the 9/11 Commission to enhance national security.The enforcement begins on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. From this date, travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant card or approved alternative for certain federal purposes.