What Corporate Travelers Need to Know About REAL ID Requirements

The Countdown Is On: REAL ID Deadline Coming May 7, 2025

If you travel for business, now is the time to check your wallet. Beginning May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will enforce REAL ID requirements for all domestic air travel. That means standard driver’s licenses that aren’t REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted (or may cause a delay) at TSA checkpoints.

What Is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal security standards. You’ll recognize it by what is typically a gold star in the top right corner. These enhanced IDs were established to improve safety after 9/11 and are now required for air travel within the U.S. and access to certain federal buildings.

Who Needs a REAL ID?

All U.S. citizens flying domestically will need either:

• A REAL ID-compliant license or ID

• Or an alternative TSA-approved ID (like a U.S. passport, military ID, or Global Entry card)

Where REAL ID Is Required

• Domestic Air Travel: To board federally regulated domestic flights, travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card. Alternatively, acceptable forms of identification include a valid U.S. passport, passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST), U.S. military ID, or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) from states that issue them. 

• Access to Federal Facilities: REAL ID-compliant identification is also required to enter certain federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear facilities. However, this requirement does not apply to voting, accessing federal benefits, or entering federal facilities that do not require identification. 

REAL ID Exceptions and Alternatives

• Children Under 18: Minors traveling with a compliant adult are not required to present a REAL ID or alternative identification for domestic flights.

• Alternative Acceptable IDs: In addition to REAL ID-compliant licenses, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts other forms of identification, such as U.S. passports, passport cards, DHS trusted traveler cards, U.S. military IDs, and Enhanced Driver's Licenses from Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.

How to Get a REAL ID

You can apply for a REAL ID at your local DMV. Be sure to bring:

• Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)

• Proof of Social Security number

• Two documents showing your current address (utility bill, lease, etc.)

We recommend checking your state’s DMV website for specific documentation requirements.

Why It Matters for Business Travel

Without a REAL ID (or valid alternative ID), your business travelers will face additional TSA screening steps for domestic flights. That means potential missed meetings, delayed jobs, and added costs for your business.

If you’re managing travel for teams—it’s critical to ensure everyone’s IDs are up to date.

Stay Travel-Ready with Corpay Lodging

At Corpay Lodging, we help companies simplify travel logistics every day. From easy hotel booking tools to 24/7 traveler support, we’re here to keep your team moving—efficiently and compliantly.

• Need to make last-minute hotel adjustments due to flight delays? We’ve got you.

• Managing a large team on the road? Our reporting tools and controls help you stay organized.

Check out our solutions and make sure your travelers are ready for the road—and the runway.