Identification and Documentation Requirements

See what you need to know before you go!

REAL ID Deadline - Beginning on May 7, 2025, all travelers over the age of 18 will need a state-issued REAL ID compliant license or identification card to fly within the United States. Residents will need to have driver’s licenses and identification cards that meet the security standards established by the REAL ID Act by the enforcement date. As required by the law, following the enforcement deadline, federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will be prohibited from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet these federal standards.

The following information is from our partners at the United States Department of Homeland Security for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

If you have any other questions about screening or REAL ID requirements you can reach out to TSA directly on their website, or on social media @AskTSA on Facebook or Twitter. If you have questions on passport control and documentation required for entry into the United States, you can contact the Embassy or CBP's Customer Service Team.

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What’s the latest on the Real ID Act?

REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card. If you’re not sure, contact your state driver’s license agency on how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant card. For information by state, including where to obtain a REAL ID, visit the DHS REAL ID website and click your state on the map.

If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and New York states issue REAL ID and state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses, both of which are acceptable. Washington state issues enhanced driver’s licenses only. State-issued enhanced driver's licenses are marked with a flag. These documents will be accepted at the airport security checkpoint when the REAL ID enforcement goes into effect.

Are you ready for REAL ID?

Take the Washington State Department of Licensing’s quiz to ensure you have the correct identification for air travel.  

How do I get a REAL ID-compliant license or ID? 

Choosing the right ID depends on your travel needs. An enhanced driver’s license (EDL) or enhanced ID (EID) allows you to fly around the U.S. and travel by land and sea into bordering countries. A passport allows you to fly within the U.S. and around the world.  

Washington state residents can follow these steps for an EDL or EID.  

See what documents you need 

Make an appointment with the Washington State Department of Licensing