WASHINGTON, DC—The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that starting May 7, 2025, it will begin enforcing the REAL ID Act, requiring passengers to present REAL ID-compliant identification at TSA security checkpoints nationwide. This includes all airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck members.
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, aims to enhance security by making fraudulent IDs more difficult to forge. According to TSA Senior Official Adam Stahl, enforcing the act will “bolster safety by making fraudulent IDs harder to forge, thwarting criminals and terrorists.” The enforcement of the REAL ID Act is being implemented as directed by Congress and the American people.
Passengers presenting non-REAL ID state-issued IDs will face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of being denied entry at security checkpoints. Acceptable alternative IDs include a passport. Noncitizens who are illegally present in the U.S. and voluntarily self-deport on international flights won’t be denied boarding.
Currently, 81% of travelers present acceptable identification, including state-issued REAL IDs. The TSA anticipates a steady increase in REAL ID holders and will continue implementing additional screening measures for those without REAL IDs until it is no longer a security concern.
This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.
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