As much as we love Philadelphia, many of us travel domestically for adventure, leisure, and work. Now, if you’re planning to travel in 2025 from Philly to anywhere in the United States, there’s a big change on the horizon. By May 7, 2025 all Americans will need a REAL ID to fly. Read on for more information and details on how you can obtain one.
What Is A Real ID?
Indeed, in more recent years there has been more talk surrounding a REAL ID and beginning next year, the time will come where you’ll most likely need one. In 2005, Congress passed The REAL ID Act following the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses”. You can read the act in its entirety here.
How Will This Impact Flying?
Simply put, beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID in order to fly anywhere in the country. However, a state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or an approved alternate form of ID will also be acceptable. Specifically, only those who live in the states of MI, MN, NY, VT and WA have the option of obtaining an enhanced driver’s license.
For states like Pennsylvania, acceptable forms of alternative ID include:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- U.S. military ID
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Enhanced driver’s licenses (offered in MI, MN, NY, VT and WA. Generally marked with U.S. flag)
Here’s How To Make Sure Your REAL ID Ready:
REAL ID enforcement begins in 58 weeks. To make sure you are ready, make an appt at your nearest PennDOT. Be sure to bring the following documents with you to your appointment
- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of State Residency
- Proof of Legal Name, Date of Birth and/or Gender Designation Change (if applicable)
There’s also a fun tool online by The Department of Homeland Security that maps out the path to obtaining this new ID step-by-step by state.