DHS Chief Kristi Noem Announces All Adult U.S. Citizens Must Have REAL ID to Fly Starting May — Here Are Other Forms of Identification You Can Use
by Jim Hᴏft Apr. 12, 2025 4:40 pm
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has announced that effective May 7, 2025, all adult U.S. citizens must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification or a valid passport to board domestic flights and access federal facilities.
This enforcement marks the culmination of the REAL ID Act, originally passed in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations to enhance the integrity and security of state-issued identification documents.
On December 17, 2018, President Trump signed the REAL ID Act Modification for Freely Associated States Act, Public Law 115-323.
“If you plan on traveling, we need your help to prevent delays and to prove your identity. Get a REAL ID. Starting May 7th, you will need a REAL ID to travel by air or to visit federal buildings in the United States,” Noem said in a video statement.
“These IDs keep our country safe because they help prevent fraud and enhance security. Please do your part to protect our country. Go today, and don’t delay.”
There are several other forms of identification you can use to fly.
According to TSA:
State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
HSPD-12 PIV card
Foreign government-issued passport
Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
Transportation worker identification credential
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Children
TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.
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https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/04/dhs-chief-kristi-noem-announces-all-adult-u/