New Englanders encouraged to make REAL ID appointments for 2025 deadline
The dates in this story have been updated to reflect a Department of Homeland Security announcement made on Monday, Dec. 5, 2022, that the REAL ID deadline would be pushed from 2023 to 2025.
When enforcement of the REAL ID begins anyone who wants to board a plane will need a federally-accepted form of identification.
Beginning on May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must have a REAL ID or valid passport to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. At that point, standard driver's licenses or non-driver identification cards can no longer be used to fly within the U.S.
REAL IDs are a more secure version of a traditional driver's license, and requiring them for certain travel "establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production," according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Here's what we know about delayReal ID deadline delayed (again). You can keep traveling with an old ID until 2025.
Do I need a Real ID?
Only those looking to fly or access certain federal facilities will need a REAL ID. Standard driver's licenses and non-driver identification cards will still be recognized, just not for federal identification purposes.
People can certainly obtain a REAL ID after the May deadline, too, but for those who fly domestically, a REAL ID will be required after May 7, 2025, or else they'll need a valid passport to board.
There are additional federally approved forms of identification for flying.
What is the REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act, originally passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The act was a result of a 9/11 Commission recommendation following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
Oct. 1, 2020 was originally the REAL ID enforcement deadline, but that was postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Department of Homeland Security postponed it again on Dec. 5, 2022. Obtaining a REAL ID card could take some time, and more documentation is required than a regular driver's license, so individuals are encouraged not to wait until the last minute if they are traveling or need federal facility access shortly after May 7, 2025.
How to get a REAL ID in New England
An in-person appointment is required to get a REAL ID, versus a standard driver's license that can sometimes be processed online. In addition, more documentation is required.
An interactive map on the Department of Homeland Security website allows users to select their state to find out what is required to get a REAL ID where they live. Cost varies per state, but is not more than $60. Visit your state department of motor vehicles' website to make an appointment.
Massachusetts: Registry of Motor Vehicles
Rhode Island: Division of Motor Vehicles
New Hampshire: Division of Motor Vehicles
Maine: Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Vermont: Department of Motor Vehicles
Connecticut: Department of Motor Vehicles
What do I need to get a REAL ID?
There is a document checklist for people looking to obtain a REAL ID. Required documents can vary by state, but most include proof of address, proof of social security, a birth certificate and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence like a passport, green card or immigration documents.
Visit your state department of motor vehicles' website to find out what documents you need for your appointment.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY NETWORK: How to get a REAL ID in MA, RI, CT, NH, ME, VT before new 2025 deadline
