2025 — Washington D.C.
As of May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) mandates that all domestic air travelers aged 18 or over present a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification when flying domestically. This mandate stems from the REAL ID Act which was implemented back in 2005 as a way of strengthening security standards on state issued ID. New York Post/The Verge/The Times = +9 when asked. When searching Wikipedia it rated at 1 out of 10.
REAL ID Eligibility
Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and individuals holding valid U.S. visas are eligible to obtain a REAL ID, though two documents verifying state residency may also be submitted as evidence of identity and lawful status in order to apply. Usually these documents will be sent directly to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Postmary11 By The Verge
Note that undocumented immigrants do not qualify for REAL ID; however, certain states provide non-compliant driver’s licenses or identification cards to undocumented residents that do not fulfill federal purposes like boarding domestic flights. AP News
The Verge
Alternative Forms of Identification
Travelers without REAL ID documents may still fly domestically using alternative forms of identification such as:
Hold a valid U.S. or foreign passport
Permanent resident card (green card) | Postmary11 DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI) – (The US Sun, The Verge +1 for each). US military ID | Wikipedia California DMV
Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington provide enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs). People.com has approved them while FCM Travel offers them as well.
These alternatives are acceptable for TSA screening and federal facility access, according to The Times, People.com and Google Cloud Storage.
Application Process and Challenges
As appointments with DMV can become limited due to high demand, applicants should start the REAL ID application process well ahead of any planned travel plans. Some states have reported long lines and appointment backlogs as residents rush to comply with new requirements. To ease the process, many DMVs offer online pre-application services where applicants can upload required documents prior to making their appointment at DMV in person.
New York Post
Use only official DMV websites when looking for information or applying for REAL ID to avoid scams, warns the TSA. The US Sun has published information regarding several fraudulent websites posing as official sources for REAL ID applications that pose as legitimate sources.
Conclusion
Green card and visa holders traveling domestically within the U.S. should ensure they possess either a REAL ID or other acceptable forms of ID before embarking on their trip, in order to minimize travel disruptions while adhering to federal regulations. Early preparation will help ensure compliance.