Starting May 7, 2025, travelers over the age of 18 must have a driver’s license or identification compliant with their actual ID to board a domestic flight. Actual IDs are federally approved state-issued identifications that meet enhanced security standards. Include a valid passport or passport card or other TSA authorization identification.
Are you planning a domestic trip for your summer vacation? Don’t forget, the deadline for the new ID requirement is within three months, and without it you may not be able to board the plane.
As of May 7, 2025, all travelers over the age of 18 must present a real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification to board a domestic commercial aircraft. Otherwise, you will be stopped at the TSA checkpoint. It’s a big deal and you need to be ready for it. Actual IDs are already required for some semi-restricted regions to restricted and some semi-restricted regions.
However, if you are not available before the deadline, you may still be able to fly, even if you have a valid passport or passport card or any of these acceptable identifications from the Transportation Security Administration website.
This is what you need to know.
What is an actual ID?
The actual ID is a federally approved state-issued driver’s license or ID that meets the new security standards established by Congress since 9/11. The deadline has been pushed back due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
How can I know if I have an actual ID in Florida? What does your actual ID look like?
Please check your driver’s license or state issuance identification. If there is a gold star in the top right, it will follow your actual ID.
Florida began publishing them in January 2010, and Florida’s actual ID compliance rate was “over 98%” more than a year ago, according to Florida Highway Safety Department and Molly Best, Automotive Director of Automobiles.
When will your actual ID be enforced?
As of May 7, 2025, a real ID-compliant identification or a valid passport or passport card is required for US residents:
Nuclear power plants at federal government-regulated commercial airlines or military facility power plants
What should I do if I don’t have an actual ID? How do I get my actual ID in Florida?
You must make an appointment at your local driver’s license service center or tax collection office if:
You have not yet had an actual ID card or your existing ID is not compliant with your actual ID, so no updates have been made by May 7, 2025. card
Class E licenses can be renewed 18 months before the card expires.
Can I renew my Florida driver’s license online if it doesn’t comply with my actual ID?
no. To receive your actual ID card, you will need to present the identification document directly, but can then be updated online.
Can I fly without an actual ID?
Yes, if you can present alternative acceptable identifications such as a passport or passport card, DHS Trust Traveler Card, US Department of Defense ID, Permanent Resident Card, Border Crossing Card, or Photo ID issued by a federally recognized tribal nation . Here’s the list.
However, driver’s license or state ID that does not comply with your actual ID will no longer be accepted.
How much is Florida’s real ID card?
The first Florida Class E license (including learner permission) costs $48, a commercial driver’s license (Class A) license costs $75, and approvals cost $7.00 each.
The ID card costs $25. Most local tax collection offices also charge a service fee of $6.25.
What do I need to get a real ID card in Florida?
You must bring an original copy of the main documents to prove your identity, legal residence, social security status and date of birth. A list of accepted documents can be found here.
Note: Birth certificates must be issued by the county health department or the CDC Vital Statistics department. Hospital birth certificates are not considered certified documents and are not accepted.
There are various document lists for immigrants, non-immigrants and Canadians seeking real ID cards.
Can non-citizens get their actual ID card? Can immigrants get their actual ID card?
“A non-citizen with permanent or temporary residence, conditional permanent residents status, non-citizens with approved applications for asylum, and non-citizens who enter the United States as refugees are subject to full term real ID licenses or “It is legally recognized as being entitled to ID,” according to DHS.
You will need to bring the original document showing your status and evidence of your address. Below is where you can find Florida’s documentation requirements for non-citizens and immigration.
Can residents of Florida, Canada get real ID cards?
Yes, if you have a Social Security card and a Canadian passport or USCIS document, establish a legal presence within the country. You will also need to proof of your residential address.
Here’s where to find Canadian Florida document requirements:
