What Immigrants Should Know About the REAL ID Act

If you're an immigrant living in the United States, you may have heard about the REAL ID Act. This federal law affects what type of identification is required to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings. Here's what you need to know to stay informed and avoid travel disruptions.

What Is the REAL ID Act?

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to strengthen the security standards for state-issued identification, like driver’s licenses. Starting May 7, 2025, individuals will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID to:

• Board domestic flights within the U.S.

• Enter secure federal facilities (like military bases or federal courthouses)

A REAL ID looks similar to a regular driver’s license but has a star at the top. If your license doesn’t have the star, it is not REAL ID-compliant.

Do Immigrants Need a REAL ID?

It depends on your situation. REAL ID is not required for everyone, but if you want to fly within the U.S. using a state ID or driver’s license, it must be REAL ID-compliant after the deadline. You can also use other documents to fly, such as:

• A valid foreign passport

• A U.S. permanent resident card (green card)

• An Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

• A DHS-issued travel document (e.g., Advance Parole)

• A U.S. passport (for naturalized citizens)

If you don’t plan to travel or visit federal buildings that require ID, or if you have another valid immigration document, you might not need a REAL ID license.

Can Immigrants Get a REAL ID?

Yes, but only certain immigration statuses qualify. States are required to verify lawful presence in the U.S. before issuing a REAL ID. This means that you may be eligible if you have:

• Lawful Permanent Resident status (green card)

• Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

• Asylum or refugee status

• An approved U visa, T visa, or VAWA case

• A pending application that grants lawful stay (such as adjustment of status)

DACA recipients and others with work authorization may also qualify, depending on state policies and documentation.

However, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for a REAL ID license under federal law, even if their state issues them standard (non-REAL ID) licenses.

What Happens If You Don't Have a REAL ID?

If you don’t have a REAL ID license by May 7, 2025, and you try to fly within the U.S., you’ll need to show another form of TSA-approved identification. Otherwise, you may not be allowed to board.

The REAL ID does not affect:

• Your immigration status

• Your ability to apply for or renew a standard state license (in states that allow it)

• International travel (which still requires a passport)

How Do You Get a REAL ID?

Visit your state’s DMV website and make an appointment. You will need to bring:

• Proof of identity (passport, green card, or other immigration document)

• Proof of lawful status

• Social Security number (or proof of ineligibility, depending on state)

• Two documents showing state residency (like a lease or utility bill)

Each state may have slightly different requirements, so check before going in.

Stay Informed

Immigration policies and related laws can change quickly. For more helpful updates and resources, follow Tran Flores Law.