The Real ID deadline is here. What travelers need to know

The requirement for Real ID-compliant identification for domestic flights begins on May 7, 2025, impacting travelers aged 18 and older. The TSA warns individuals without a Real ID to arrive early for advanced screening to mitigate potential delays. As of May 1, about 19. 5 million Real IDs have been issued in California, indicating that 58% of eligible residents have obtained one. Travelers can also use other forms of ID, such as U.

S. passports, green cards, or trusted traveler IDs, to meet the requirement. There is no rush for those who do not plan to travel without a valid passport or military ID before the deadline. San Diego County DMVs are extending hours for Real ID services, opening at 7 a. m.

on select days exclusively for appointments. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005, sets federal standards for state-issued IDs in response to security concerns following the September 11 attacks. The TSA emphasizes the importance of self-responsibility for travelers to ensure they have the proper identification and allow sufficient time for screening.