Be Ready for REAL ID

As of May 7^th, 2025, all adult air travelers are required to have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to fly within the United States. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this new requirement. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Rep. Larson’s office at 860-278-8888. 

More information on REAL ID requirements is also available from the Department of Homeland Security HERE. 

What is REAL ID? 

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005, outlining the security requirements identification cards must meet for a resident to access certain federal government facilities or board an airline flight in the United States. These REAL ID requirements are fully in effect as of May 7^th, 2025. 

What forms of ID will be accepted? 

The following forms of identification will be accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to board a flight. A full list of acceptable IDs is available at the TSA website. 

Expired IDs are accepted by TSA for up to two years after the expiration date. 

Are minors required to have a REAL ID? 

No, children under the age of 18 do not need to provide identification when traveling within the United States. 

Will I be able to travel without a REAL ID? 

Yes, but you may be directed to a separate screening area for travelers without REAL IDs. Procedures may vary by airport depending on technology and staffing capabilities. If TSA cannot verify your identity, you will be directed back to the airline ticketing counter. TSA estimates that more than 80% of current travelers are using REAL ID-compliant forms of identification. 

Can immigrants obtain REAL IDs? 

Yes, immigrants with the following statuses can obtain REAL IDs: 

Permanent resident cards, foreign-issued passports, and USCIS Employment Authorization Cards are all REAL ID-compliant. 

Are temporary paper IDs compliant? 

Temporary Paper IDs will only be accepted if presented with an expired driver’s license or another state-issued ID.