Starting May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers flying domestically will need to show a federally compliant form of identification to pass through TSA airport security checkpoints. This change is the result of the federal REAL ID Act, which sets enhanced security standards for state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses. If you plan to use a Florida driver’s license or state ID to fly within the United States, now is the time to make sure it’s REAL ID-compliant.
What Is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or ID card that meets federal security requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It’s marked by a star in the upper corner—commonly a gold or black star, or a star within a circle or bear, depending on the state. In Florida, this star typically appears in the top right corner.
Who Needs a REAL ID?
If you're 18 or older and plan to use your state-issued license or ID to board a domestic flight after May 7, 2025, it must be REAL ID-compliant. Without it, you’ll need an alternative TSA-approved ID to fly, such as a passport. This requirement applies to all U.S. states and territories, including Florida.
What Forms of ID Will TSA Accept in 2025?
In addition to REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and state IDs, TSA will continue to accept the following forms of identification:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense IDs
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Tribal-issued photo IDs (including Enhanced Tribal Cards)
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- USCIS Employment Authorization Card (Form I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian Affairs Canada card
Note: Temporary or paper driver’s licenses are not accepted for TSA screening.
REAL ID vs. Passport: Which Should You Carry?
Both REAL ID and passports are accepted for domestic air travel. However, REAL ID cannot be used for international travel. If you have a passport, you may use it instead of a REAL ID to fly domestically. But if your only form of ID is a Florida driver’s license, it must be REAL ID-compliant after May 7, 2025.
How to Get a REAL ID in Florida
To upgrade to a REAL ID, Florida residents must visit a local Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office in person. Be prepared to present documents that prove your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and Florida residency. You can find a checklist and appointment information at flhsmv.gov/REALID.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a REAL ID?
If you show up to a domestic flight without a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative ID after May 7, 2025, you may be denied boarding or subject to additional screening. Don’t take that risk—verify your ID status today.
Final Word from Carlson Meissner Hayslett
Our firm encourages all clients and community members to plan ahead for this important change. As a legal team deeply rooted in the Tampa Bay area, we’re committed to helping our neighbors stay informed and prepared.
If you have questions about identity verification, TSA protocols, or your rights while traveling, contact us at Carlson Meissner Hayslett for legal guidance.
