Real Deal About Real ID Rollout: Busting Myths for Our Retired Military
Ensuring Flight Capability Past the REAL ID Deadline: A Guide
Updated on a more approachable and conversational level, let's dive into the latest happenings with the much-anticipated REAL ID requirement across the USA. As of today, May 7, 2025, you've got until the end of the day to comply with this new identification standard for domestic flights and selected federal facilities.
The wait is finally over, but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially among our retired military members like Fred from Oklahoma. He shared an email expressing concerns about the feasibility of TSA recognizing retired military IDs, citing a questionable situation back in April 2024, which left many worried or upset.
In a nutshell, here's the lowdown on what's changed, how it impacts our military veterans, and how to smoothly navigate the process for obtaining your REAL ID—if you still need one.
First things first: What's the deal with the REAL ID, and why should we get on board now?
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, aimed to strengthen security standards for state-issued IDs, based on recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. As of today, you need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID with a star in the upper corner, a valid passport, or another TSA-approved ID to go through TSA screenings for domestic flights or enter specific federal buildings. You might be turned away at airport security if you don't carry one of these essentials, even if you've been using your current ID for years.
Now, let's nip the confusion about military IDs. Will our retired military IDs still hold water at TSA checkpoints?
Score one for Fred and his fellow retirees! Defense Department-issued IDs, such as Common Access Cards, Uniformed Services ID cards, and older retired ID cards, continue to be accepted by the TSA for domestic airline travel. This applies to cards displaying "INDEF" (indefinite) expiration dates, despite previous glitches and uncertainty. There may arise instances of TSA systems reading an "INDEF" date as expired, which could lead to the agency requesting another acceptable ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a passport. If no alternative ID is available, a supervisor might review your document and grant you clearance, albeit with possible delays.
The long and short? Military retiree and dependent ID cards are still legit for domestic travel as of today. Carry any backup ID just in case you've experienced issues in the past.
What happens if you don't have a REAL ID yet? We'll cover that in the next section.
Listen, we get you're busy navigating this REAL ID rollout. So if you heard conflicting information, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We'll help clear things up and keep you informed—that's what we're here for!
Warm regards,Your Pals at [our website]
P.S. Still on the hunt for REAL ID solutions? Follow these steps to get an ID that checks all the boxes:
- Check your current ID for a gold, black, or star symbol at the top (in some states, you'll find a bear with a star).
- If your ID has the symbol, you're good to go.
- Gather your documents, varying by state, including:
- Proof of identity (U.S. passport, birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or paystub with the full SSN)
- Two proofs of address (utility bills, bank statements, lease/mortgage, etc.)
- Proof of lawful status (if not a U.S. citizen)
- Legal proof of name changes if applicable (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
- Schedule a REAL ID appointment via your state's DMV website.
- Slots may be limited due to high demand, but more seats are added daily.
- Head to the DMV for your appointment armed with your documents, application, and a smile.
- Get your photo taken and pay the fee, usually between $20 and $60 per state.
- Receive your REAL ID in the mail or at the DMV, depending on your state's process.
- Use your new card for travel within the United States.
- Despite concerns raised by Fred and others, Defense Department-issued IDs, such as Common Access Cards, Uniformed Services ID cards, and older retired ID cards, are still accepted by the TSA for domestic airline travel, even if they display "INDEF" (indefinite) expiration dates.
- However, there may be instances where TSA systems read an "INDEF" date as expired, resulting in the agency requesting another acceptable ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a passport.
- In 2024, lawmakers are considering strengthening the REAL ID Act to align with ever-evolving technology and political changes in the realm of travel and security.
- By 2024, your lifestyle may demand more international travel, making having a passport an essential addition to your ID portfolio to ensure hassle-free entry into other countries.
