CASPER, Wyoming - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reminded the public today that starting Wednesday, May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need to present a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver license, instruction permit or identification card or another acceptable form of ID to board a U.S. commercial aircraft.
To determine if a Wyoming credential is REAL ID-compliant, look for a white star in the middle of a black circle in the top right corner. Wyoming began issuing REAL ID-compliant cards in 2011 and is 100% compliant with federal requirements related to REAL ID.
Once enforcement begins, any passenger who presents a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant and who do not have another acceptable form of photo identification can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint if their identity cannot be verified.
“I am pleased to share that Wyoming residents who have a credential such as a driver license, instruction permit or identity card issued by the Wyoming Department of Transportation are prepared for the enforcement of REAL ID on May 7, 2025,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Wyoming Jamie K. Hicks. “While these state-issued credentials that meet REAL ID standards can be used for identity verification, TSA will also continue to accept other forms of photo ID including passports, passport cards and many more.”
TSA has a full list of acceptable forms of identification beyond a state-issued driver license or identification card that can be presented at the security checkpoint for identity verification. Some examples of alternate forms of acceptable identification are a U.S. passport or passport card; any government-issued passport; Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler card including a Global Entry; active duty and retired military ID including IDs issued to dependents; ID card issued by any federally-recognized tribe; and the Transportation Worker Identification Credential.
Congress passed The REAL ID Act in 2005, enacting a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission that established minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses and identification cards. The Act further prohibited federal agencies, including the TSA, from accepting state-issued driver licenses or identification cards that do not meet the minimum standards.
REAL ID is intended to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards while inhibiting the ability of terrorists and others to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.
Nationally, TSA estimates that 81% of travelers have a REAL ID-compliant credential or another acceptable form of identification. Wyoming is well-ahead of the national average.
Signs are currently posted at airports nationwide reminding the public that REAL ID-compliant licenses or other acceptable forms of identification will be mandatory for commercial air travel beginning May 7, 2025. More information and Frequently Asked Questions on REAL ID can be found at www.tsa.gov/real-id.