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The TSA Now Wants a Phased Rollout of the Real ID Next Year – Here’s Why

Posted on by darion

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) wants to take a phased approach to enforcing REAL ID requirements when the program goes into effect next year.

The TSA on Thursday allowing proposed federal agencies to exercise “necessary flexibility” when it comes to enforcement of the deadline, according to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking filed in the Federal Register by the TSA and Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

“TSA is engaging with the public, licensing jurisdictions and states to facilitate a smooth transition to REAL ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a statement. “REAL ID provides an important security enhancement, and this rule allows us to plan for a range of scenarios to help minimize the potential impact to travelers, industry stakeholders and states during implementation.”

Real ID is an enhanced state-issued driver’s license that will be required to go through airport security starting on May 7, 2025. Travelers who don’t meet the deadline can also use several other forms of accepted ID for security checkpoints, including a passport , a US passport card, or DHS trusted traveler cards.

As part of the proposed rule change, the deadline will remain the same, but the TSA will be allowed to “Consider a phased enforcement approach.” Regardless, full enforcement will be required by May 5, 2027, and the TSA said travelers “could face delays at airport security checkpoints” after the 2025 deadline.

The public may submit comments on the proposed rule change through regulations.gov by Oct. 15.

REAL ID has been in the works for years and postponed several times since its inception. The rule was originally passed by Congress in 2005 following the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.

The requirements to obtain a REAL ID vary by state, but at a minimum, travelers must provide two proofs of address. Travelers can consult their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) site for more information.