A long-anticipated federal identification mandate goes into effect Wednesday, requiring all U.S. air travelers to present enhanced identification documents when flying domestically.
Starting May 7, the Transportation Security Administration will enforce the REAL ID Act nationwide, mandating that all passengers 18 and older present either a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to board any commercial flight within the United States.
Business travelers who frequently take domestic flights should ensure they have proper documentation before heading to the airport, as those without compliant identification may face significant disruptions.
“As the REAL ID deadline arrives, we want to ensure that our passengers are fully prepared and experience no disruptions in their travel plans,” said Atif Elkadi, chief executive officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority in a May 5 press release.
Airport authorities warn that travelers without proper identification could experience delays, additional screening, or even be denied entry through security checkpoints, potentially causing missed meetings and business appointments.
In most states, REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses feature a star marking, though design details vary by state. In California, for example, compliant licenses display a golden bear with a star in the top right corner.
Business professionals who travel frequently may want to consider alternative acceptable forms of identification that they might already possess, including U.S. passports, passport cards, or DHS Trusted Traveler cards such as Global Entry. Active duty or retired military IDs, tribal-issued photo IDs, and Transportation Worker Identification Credentials are also accepted.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 in response to security recommendations following the September 11 attacks, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. After several implementation delays over nearly two decades, the final enforcement deadline has arrived.
Elkadi characterized the change as “an important milestone in aviation security,” noting that airports are working to help travelers navigate the transition.
For frequent business travelers, this regulatory change means adding an extra pre-trip verification step to their travel routines. Corporate travel managers should consider implementing reminders about the new requirements in their travel policies and pre-trip communications to prevent business disruptions.
