The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) along with teach individual state’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles is reminding travelers to ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification as the federal enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, draws closer.
On May 7th, TSA will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at TSA security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck members, must present REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable ID, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints. Noncitizens illegally present in the U.S. who are voluntarily self-deporting on international flights will not be denied boarding under this requirement.
“As we approach a busy travel season, TSA’s focus is to enforce REAL ID effectively and efficiently,” said Jason Pinegar, TSA’s acting federal security director for Maine. “Passengers who present state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint. We are committed to the traveling public by raising the security baseline nationwide and ensuring their safety.”
“The federal mandates are causing Mainers real concerns, but the BMV is here to help ensure Mainers get to where they need to be,” said Shenna Bellows, Maine Secretary of State. “May 7 is only the date the TSA will begin requiring a passport or Real ID to fly domestically, it is not the deadline to get a Real ID. The BMV will be offering Real IDs long after May 7. If you don’t have upcoming travel plans, go online to make an appointment for later this summer – you’ll be in and out of the BMV quickly. But if you do have travel plans and don’t currently have a passport or other federal ID, check the BMV website for the list of documents you’ll need for a Real ID and plan to go to your local BMV as early in the day as you can.”
Everyone without a passport or any other acceptable form of ID is encouraged to upgrade to a REAL ID compliant license. A standard license without the star won’t be accepted for domestic flights and you will face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the secure area of the airport.
Real ID applicants must have their photograph taken and provide the following documentation (for a complete list download the REAL ID Checklist (PDF), copies of which will remain on file with the BMV:
- One document that establishes identity*, date of birth, and proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence, or other lawful status in the U.S. (see below for additional requirements if your legal name has changed for any reason including marriage)
- Provide Social Security Number (card not required) or evidence of Social Security Number ineligibility.
- Two documents to establish proof of residence in the State of Maine, such as a utility bill, paycheck stub or mortgage statement (P.O. Box is not acceptable).
For more information and details about how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, visit the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for the state of residence.