Mon May 05 07:10:00 UTC 2025: ## REAL ID Deadline Looms: What Other IDs Will Airports Accept?

**Washington, D.C.** – With the May 7th deadline for REAL ID-compliant identification approaching, millions of Americans are rushing to update their driver’s licenses. However, travelers who haven’t yet obtained a REAL ID still have options for domestic air travel. While a REAL ID (marked with a star) is the preferred form of identification, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several alternatives.

These include:

* **Enhanced Driver’s Licenses:** Issued by Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Vermont, and Washington, these licenses, marked with a U.S. flag and the word “enhanced,” are acceptable for domestic air travel, even without the star. They also serve as proof of citizenship for land border crossings.

* **U.S. Passports:** Both passport books and cards are valid alternatives for domestic flights, and remain mandatory for international travel.

The TSA urges all air travelers over 18 to ensure they possess a compliant form of identification before arriving at the airport to avoid delays. The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, mandates minimum security standards for identification used for domestic air travel. Those without compliant identification risk delays or denial of boarding.

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