Don’t wait! How to get Real ID before May 7 deadline

Bags? Check. Flight tickets? Check. ID?...Not sure.

Many travelers may find themselves in a bind at the airport if they’re not prepared.

READ: Answering FAQs ahead of May 2025 deadline

Beginning May 7, 2025, anyone 18 years and older who plans to fly domestically or visit certain federal facilities will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport.

What is a REAL ID?

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005, following the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission. It set federal standards for the issuance of sources of identification, like driver’s licenses and ID cards, to strengthen national security.

MORE: REAL ID deadline for air travelers extended to May 2025, US Dept. of Homeland Security says

Starting next year, federal agencies — including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) — will only accept REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs for official purposes like boarding commercial flights and entering certain secure federal facilities.

How to know if you already have a REAL ID

In Texas (and most states), if you renewed or replaced your driver’s license or ID card after October 10, 2016, and it has a gold star in the top right-hand corner, you already have a REAL ID — no further action is needed.

Your compliant card will remain valid until its expiration date.

If your card does not have a gold star, you can still use it after May 7, 2025, but only for state-related purposes like driving, banking, and voting — not for federal purposes such as flying or entering military bases.

Who needs a REAL ID?

Not everyone needs to rush to get a REAL ID:

• If you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, you can use that instead.
• Photo IDs from federally recognized tribal nations are also acceptable.
• Other accepted documents include green cards, employment authorization documents, and several others listed on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website.

REAL ID is not required to:

• Drive
• Vote
• Receive state or federal benefits

However, if you plan to fly domestically or enter secure federal sites, you’ll need one or another approved form of ID.

How to get a REAL ID

If you don’t have a REAL ID yet, don’t panic — there’s still time.

Enhanced cards have been available for years through every U.S. state and territory’s motor vehicle agency.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Check your current ID for a gold star.
2. Gather your documents — typically, you’ll need:
   1. Proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport)
   2. Proof of Social Security number
   3. Two proofs of Texas residency (like a utility bill or lease)
3. Schedule an appointment at your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office or visit during walk-in hours.
4. Apply in person — online applications aren’t available for first-time REAL ID issuance.

If you miss the May 7 deadline, you can still apply afterward — but you won’t be able to board domestic flights without another acceptable form of ID in the meantime.

For detailed information and a list of acceptable documents, visit the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID page or your state’s DMV/DPS website.