After multiple delays, the federal REAL ID requirement is officially set to take effect on May 7, 2025, marking a significant shift in how Americans will board domestic flights.
The Washington State Department of Licensing has confirmed that beginning next spring, all travelers 18 years or oldermust present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to pass through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints for air travel within the United States.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 following a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission, was designed to strengthen national security by setting minimum standards for state-issued identification documents. These standards include enhanced anti-counterfeiting features, more secure identity verification processes, and stricter checks to prevent identity fraud.
The federal government postponed the implementation of REAL ID several times, with the most recent delay stemming from disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with the May 7, 2025, deadline fast approaching, travelers are being urged to ensure their identification is compliant.
What Forms of ID Will Be Accepted for Domestic Flights?
To board a domestic flight after the deadline, travelers must present one of the following TSA-approved documents:
- Enhanced Driver License (EDL)
- Enhanced Identification Card (EID)
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- U.S. Military ID
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
- Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Foreign Passport
In Washington State, residents have the option of obtaining an Enhanced Driver License or Enhanced ID, which meet REAL ID requirements. While most states mark REAL ID cards with a star symbol, Washington’s compliant IDs are marked with a U.S. flag—a detail that can cause confusion but still meets all federal criteria for airport security.
An initial Enhanced ID (EID) in Washington costs $96 for a six-year term, or $128 for an eight-year term. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and provide documents that verify Social Security number, identity, citizenship, and residency in Washington State.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a REAL ID?
Washington’s standard driver licenses and ID cards will remain valid for driving and state-level identification but will not be accepted for boarding domestic flights after May 7, 2025. These standard IDs are currently marked with the phrase “Federal Limits Apply” to indicate that they do not meet REAL ID standards.
Preparing for the REAL ID Deadline
With the deadline just around the corner, state officials recommend that travelers check the expiration dates on their current IDs and consider upgrading to an EDL or EID well in advance to avoid last-minute issues at airports.
To learn more or begin the application process, residents can visit the official Washington State Department of Licensing website or consult their nearest licensing office.
