Deadline to get Real ID postponed to May 2025

By Greg Hahne
Published: Monday, December 5, 2022 - 2:33pm

Sky Schaudt/KJZZ

The Department of Homeland Security has extended the deadline for domestic air travelers to obtain what is known as a Real ID.

Arizonans now have until May 7, 2025, to get an Arizona Travel ID to move past TSA checkpoints at airports for domestic flights. Without it, only federally compliant identification, like a passport, will get travelers past security. 

The original deadline was set for May 2023, but DHS announced the extension on Monday due to ongoing impacts from COVID-19. 

State travel IDs are marked by a white star in a yellow circle in the top right corner. Applicants must show proof of identity, like a birth certificate and Social Security number, and two documents proving Arizona residency, such as two pieces of mail. 

You can get those IDs by walking in, or making an appointment at any Motor Vehicle Division.