No Real ID? No flights: New requirements for domestic air travel start May 2025

ROCHESTER, NY — Starting May 7, 2025, anyone planning to board a domestic flight will need a REAL ID driver’s license or another form of identification such as a passport. News10NBC’s Marsha Augustin spoke with passengers at Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport who support the new requirement.

A REAL ID is a federally approved, state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets certain security standards. The main difference is the star or flag at the bottom of the license. After the deadline has passed, TSA officers will not allow travelers to enter the checkpoint without a REAL ID or another valid form of identification. Here is a list of acceptable IDs.

The government aims to improve the accuracy of driver’s licenses and ID cards. This initiative was recommended by the 9/11 Commission after it was found that the 9/11 hijackers were using fake driver’s licenses.

Passengers at the airport voiced their support for increased security. One couple showed off their REAL IDs they got last year, while another woman plans to get hers before the deadline.

“I think it’s very helpful to have anything and anyone who identifies you better,” one traveler said.

Another wasn’t entirely convinced it would completely deter terrorists, but thought it might help. “I’m not sure; if you can copy one, you can copy more,” he said. But he added: “It’s a good idea to have an extra layer.”

According to the DMV, there is no extra fee to obtain a REAL ID compared to a standard license.

Go to the DMV to get a REAL ID. required documents.

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