This Wednesday, May 7 was the deadline for the implementation of the document Real id in the territory of the United States. Although this requirement emerged 20 years ago, during the presidency of George Bush In 2005, dozens of citizens are still confused about The implications of this new measure in the country.
Most states in the American nation have already begun to demand from the population this type of “Reinforced Identification” to be able to address commercial flights within the country and to access various federal facilities, such as nuclear plants and military bases. However, there are some Exceptions.
In some states within the country of bars and stars there are driving licenses and identification cards “Improved“, known as EDL and Eidfor its acronym in English, respectively, which are also recognized by the Department of National Security (DHS) As valid documents, as well as the real ID.
EDL and EID identification documents are valid to be able to address commercial flights within the United States, access different federal facilities, enter nuclear plants or military bases and cross the US border towards Mexico either Canadaalthough in this case it is only allowed to travel by land or sea.
The five states that will not require real ID
At present, only five US states issue the improved driver’s license (EDL) and the improved identification card (EID): Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington. This is because the travel initiative in that sector allows the use of these documents as acceptable alternatives to the real id.
Both EDL and EID are characterized by showing an image of the flag of the United States and the word Enhanced (Improvedin Spanish) at the top of the document. Similar to the case of real ID identifications, which are distinguished throughout the country by having a black or gold star In the front.
Read more: Who need real ID identification? Know if it works to cross borders
Is it mandatory to obtain a real ID?
For the other 45 remaining states within the Nation, the Royal ID law entered into force this Wednesday, May 7 and its main objective is strengthen The standards of security in the field of personal identification, after having received the recommendations of the National Commission on the terrorist attacks In the United States.
For now, according to the transport security administration (TSAfor its acronym in English), the real identification ID will allow one more verification Rigorous of identity, which is key to security in Airports and federal facilities. Therefore, although it is not mandatory, at some point it becomes necessary.
Alternatives to fly without real ID
- Improved driving license (EDL)
- Improved Identification Document (EID)
- American passport
- “Reliable traveler” card issued by DHS
- Permanent residence documentation
- Worker identification credential
- Health identification for veterans
Tomorrow: Real Id Will Be Enforced. Everyone Will Need A Real ID, Passport or Another Approved Identification Or You May Face Dears.
If you miss The May 7 Deadline, You Still Can Get A Real Id.
We are committed to resenting secure identification at tsa checkpoints for all … pic.twitter.com/cxjnjtzfq4
– Homeland Security (@Dhsgov) May 6, 2025