PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) along with the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles is reminding travelers to ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification as the federal enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, draws closer.
On May 7th, TSA will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at TSA security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck® members, must present REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable ID, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints. Noncitizens illegally present in the U.S. who are voluntarily self-deporting on international flights will not be denied boarding under this requirement.
“As we approach a busy travel season, TSA’s focus is to enforce REAL ID effectively and efficiently,” said Daniel Burche, TSA Federal Security Director for Rhode Island. “Passengers who present state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint. We are committed to the traveling public by raising the security baseline nationwide and ensuring their safety.”
Rhode Island residents with a U.S. passport or passport card are set for travel after May 7, 2025, as these are REAL ID-compliant. Rhode Islanders without a passport or any other acceptable form of ID are encouraged to upgrade to a REAL ID compliant license. A standard license without the star won’t be accepted for domestic flights and you will face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the secure area of the airport.
For more information and details about how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card in Rhode Island, visit the Rhode Island DMV REAL-ID site.