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Call us: (910) 742-5324
In our last post, we covered the online passport renewal process. This time, we will cover what you need to know about Real ID for us traveling sisters.
The deadline for when a Real ID for U.S. travel has changed so many times. Now, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has set May 7th, 2025, as the official date that you must have a Real ID or other acceptable identification to enter TSA at all airports in the United States, including U.S. territories (this does NOT include Canada, Mexico, or other international travel).
Let’s examine the details to determine what it is, where you need to go to get one, and how to get one.
The Real ID Act was passed in 2005, establishing minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Beginning on May 7, 2025, You MUST have a Real ID or other acceptable form of identification for:
A state-issued Real ID will have some kind of star marking at the top.
Other acceptable forms of ID are a United States Passport or, an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is issued only in Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont. These will not have the star marking, but they are acceptable alternatives.
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and all five territories are issuing Real ID.
You can get your Real ID at your state’s driver licensing facility. Documentation is required, so I suggest visiting your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) facility or going to your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) or DMV website to find out exactly what documentation is required for your state.
The Real ID information website lists the required proof you need when you apply.
For example, when I applied for my Real ID in Wisconsin, I took a certified copy of my birth certificate, passport, Social Security number, and two credit card statements with my name and address on them. I also had my driver’s license along.
Not all states require documentation of your Social Security number; you can write it on the form. If your state does require documentation and you do not have a Social Security card, you can use the following:
The cool thing is that the Department of Homeland Security has an excellent webpage for answering all your questions about Real ID. There is also an interactive map; click on your state to access your state’s information about Real ID.
The requirements for travel are changing, and we sisters need to stay informed. If you haven’t already, don’t put off getting your Real ID any longer. May 2025 is fast approaching, and we’ve got places to see! Happy travels, fellow sisters.
Who are our Sisters? Well, we’re you! We value old friendships but love making new ones. We’re intellectually curious and love a unique adventure to parts unknown. We may be single, divorced, widowed, or simply have a partner who doesn’t want to travel. Most of all, We’re kind, compassionate women who look forward to cultural immersion, exclusive adventures, lots of laughs, and the magic of Sisterhood.
