A real ID is needed primarily to board domestic flights within the U.S. and to enter secure federal facilities like military bases or federal buildings. It is a federally regulated form of identification that meets minimum security standards set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, a real ID or another federally accepted ID (such as a passport or military ID) will be required for these purposes. You do not need a real ID to drive, vote, visit hospitals, or access federal facilities that do not require federally accepted ID. The real ID is optional but provides a convenient, federally recognized proof of identity that facilitates air travel and access to secure federal locations.
The requirement aims to improve security by providing a more robust and reliable identity authentication system through standardized state-issued IDs. However, obtaining a real ID may pose challenges for some populations due to the documentation and costs needed to prove identity and residency.
