Real ID Deadline One Week Away: What Travelers Need to Know

Time is running out for Americans to upgrade to a Real ID. With just one week left until the May 7 deadline, travelers across the country are scrambling to meet the requirements.

At airports nationwide, TSA agents are handing out flyers to travelers without Real ID-compliant identification. If you don’t have a Real ID—or a valid passport—by the deadline, you may face longer security checks or be denied entry to the gate altogether.

The Real ID Act, passed in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, is finally being enforced after multiple delays. The law was designed to strengthen security by requiring more rigorous identity verification for air travelers.

Real IDs are marked with a star, a California bear, or an "enhanced" label depending on the state. But compliance rates vary widely across the country. While over a dozen states and D.C. report more than 90% compliance, 16 states—including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maine, Alabama, and Arizona—are still under 50%.

Getting a Real ID appointment has become a challenge in some areas. "There are a multitude of appointments online for other things, but zero for the Real ID," one frustrated traveler said. Some states offer expedited DMV appointments if you can prove you have a flight within 30 days.

If you plan to fly and don’t yet have a Real ID or passport, experts recommend bringing as many backup documents as possible—like a birth certificate or utility bill—to help verify your identity. Still, expect extra screening time—at least 30 additional minutes on top of the two hours TSA already recommends for pre-flight arrival.

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