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Everything You Need to Know About REAL ID (2025)

What Is a REAL ID?

Real ID Information: The REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification that meets security standards set by the U.S. Congress under the REAL ID Act of 2005. Designed to enhance the integrity of state-issued ID cards, the REAL ID will be mandatory for specific federal purposes, including boarding domestic flights and accessing certain federal facilities.

Beginning May 7, 2025, individuals aged 18 and older will need to present a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID for:

Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft within the United States

Entering federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear facilities

If your current driver’s license or ID card does not feature a star in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID-compliant.

History and Implementation Timeline and Real ID Information

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to set national standards for government-issued IDs. It officially took effect on May 11, 2008, but due to various delays and state compliance hurdles, the enforcement date has been pushed several times.

The final deadline for enforcement is May 7, 2025.

Do You Need a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is not mandatory. However, without one, you’ll need an alternative federally approved form of identification to:

Fly domestically

Enter secure federal facilities

Activities like driving, voting, or receiving federal benefits do not require a REAL ID.

Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Real ID Information?

No. Individuals without lawful immigration status are not eligible for a REAL ID. One of the key requirements is proof of lawful presence in the United States, such as a visa, green card, or other valid immigration documentation.

However, many states issue standard, non-compliant driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. These licenses allow driving but are marked as “Not for Federal Identification.”

What Can Foreign Nationals Use as REAL ID Alternatives?

Foreign nationals legally present in the United States can use the following documents in place of a REAL ID:

Valid foreign passport with U.S. visa

I-94 arrival/departure record

Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)

These documents are acceptable for TSA screening and other federal purposes.

What About Canadian Travelers?

Canadian citizens do not need a Real ID Information to fly within the U.S. or enter federal buildings. Instead, they can use:

A valid Canadian passport

A NEXUS card

A provincial driver’s license (for TSA checkpoints only)

An Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) from participating provinces

For international flights or land border crossings, a valid Canadian passport or NEXUS card is required.

Can You Be Denied Boarding Without a REAL ID?

Yes. Starting May 7, 2025, if you are 18 or older and cannot present a REAL ID or another TSA-accepted form of ID, you may be denied entry past airport security and denied boarding.

However, TSA does have a secondary identity verification process, which is not guaranteed and may result in delays or missed flights. It’s best to travel with the appropriate identification.

How to Get a REAL ID: Step-by-Step Guide

Where to Apply

You must apply in person at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or state licensing agency. REAL ID cannot be obtained entirely online due to document verification requirements.

Documents You’ll Need for Real ID Information

Most states require the following:

Proof of Identity

U.S. birth certificate

Valid, unexpired U.S. passport

Certificate of naturalization

Proof of Social Security Number

SSN card

W-2 form

Pay stub with full SSN

Proof of Lawful Presence (for foreign nationals)

Visa and I-94 record

Green Card

EAD (Employment Authorization Document)

Two Proofs of State Residency

Utility bill

Lease agreement

Bank statement

All documents must be originals or certified copies.

Fees and Processing Time

Fees vary by state, usually ranging between $20 to $60. Processing times also vary, but most individuals receive their REAL ID in the mail within 7 to 14 business days after applying.

Tips to Avoid Delays

Double-check your document list before visiting the DMV.

Make an appointment if your DMV allows it.

Apply well before any scheduled flights or federal appointments.

Real ID Information and Who Is Exempt from REAL ID Requirements?

Children under 18 traveling with a companion.

Individuals who do not plan to fly domestically or access federal facilities.

If you only use your ID for driving and local purposes, a standard license may still suffice.

Real ID Information and answers to all the questions

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID deadline 2025

TSA REAL ID requirements

Can Canadians fly without REAL ID?

REAL ID for immigrants

REAL ID documents required

REAL ID for foreign nationals

REAL ID DMV checklist

REAL ID and airport security

How to get a REAL ID in the U.S.

Final Thoughts

The REAL ID is a key part of federal efforts to enhance travel and identity verification security. While it’s not required for all citizens, it is essential for domestic air travel and access to specific federal facilities starting May 7, 2025.

Take the time to review your current ID. If it lacks the REAL ID star and you plan to travel, visit your local DMV to upgrade it. Stay prepared to avoid complications at airport security or federal offices.

Cross-Border Transportation from Buffalo Airport to Canada – Canam Limo

At Canam Limo, we specialize in 24/7 cross-border transportation between Buffalo Niagara International Airport and major cities across Southern Ontario including Toronto, Hamilton, Niagara Falls, Oakville, and Mississauga.

We offer a luxury fleet of:

Sedans

Full-size SUVs

Stretch Limousines

14-Passenger Shuttle Vans

All our services come with flat-rate pricing, no hidden charges, and professional drivers who are well-versed in cross-border protocols. Whether you’re a Canadian traveler arriving at Buffalo Airport or a U.S. visitor heading to Canada, Canam Limo ensures your journey is safe, seamless, and comfortable.

For bookings or inquiries, visit Canam Limo or call us anytime.

Need help planning your cross-border trip or preparing your REAL ID documents? Reach out today and let Canam Limo help you travel with confidence.