They say they mean it this time.

16 years after the first deadline to get a REAL ID passed, Homeland Security says next year it will be the law. A REAL ID is a driver’s license that will allow you to board a plane in the United States. That means more people will need to go to the Secretary of State and get a REAL ID drivers license. Alexi Giannoulias says his office is kicking off a campaign to get people signed up who need one.

May 7th – 2025 is the deadline but travelers who have a passport, passport card or global entry card can board a plane with any of those documents.