🛫 REAL ID Deadline Approaching

What Washington Travelers Need to Know

Author

Aaron Thomas
May 06, 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, standard Washington driver’s licenses won’t be valid for domestic air travel—here’s how to prepare.

If you plan to fly within the U.S. or visit certain federal facilities, it's time to check your ID. Beginning May 7, 2025, the federal REAL ID Act will be enforced, requiring travelers to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification at TSA checkpoints. Standard Washington state driver’s licenses will no longer suffice for these purposes.Washington State Department of Licensing+9AP News+9ABC7 New York+9

🪪 What Is a REAL ID?

The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission's recommendations, sets minimum security standards for state-issued IDs. A REAL ID-compliant license or ID card includes enhanced security features and is marked with a star in the upper corner. In Washington state, an Enhanced Driver License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EID) meets these requirements and is marked with a U.S. flag icon .Wikipedia+7KOMO+7AP News+7Washington State Department of Licensing+8Port of Seattle+8AP News+8Washington State Department of Licensing+2Wikipedia+2Transportation Security Administration+2

✈️ Why It Matters

Without a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, you won't be able to:Axios+18ABC7 New York+18Washington State Department of Licensing+18

📝 How to Get a REAL ID in Washington

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant EDL or EID in Washington state:

  1. Gather Required Documents: You'll need to provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.

  2. Schedule an Appointment: Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) website to schedule an appointment.

  3. Visit a Licensing Office: Bring your documents to your appointment to apply for the EDL or EID.Business InsiderPort of Seattle+2Washington State Department of Licensing+2Washington State Department of Licensing+2Port of Seattle+1Washington State Department of Licensing+1

Note: Due to high demand, appointment availability may be limited. It's advisable to plan ahead to ensure you receive your REAL ID before the deadline.

⏳ What Happens If You Don’t Have a REAL ID by May 7?

If you attempt to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal facilities without a REAL ID-compliant form of identification after May 7, 2025, you may be denied entry or face additional screening procedures. To avoid travel disruptions, ensure you have the appropriate ID well in advance of your planned travel dates.

💬 Have Questions or Need Assistance?

If you're unsure whether your current ID is REAL ID-compliant or need assistance with the application process, visit the Washington State DOL's REAL ID page for more information.

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