AmTrav Blog

REAL ID Deadline Pushed Back to 2023

Written by Cassie Sclafani | April 28, 2021

The REAL ID deadline has been pushed back once again. Last month we dove into the REAL ID Act and laid out the requirements to get compliant before the October 1st deadline.  But it was announced yesterday that the Department of Homeland Security has extended the deadline once more, this time to 2023.

After multiple delays over the years (the REAL ID Act was originally introduced after 9/11 back in 2001 to increase security), this time the COVID-19 pandemic is to blame as it’s been harder for people to visit the DMV in person to get their updated ID cards.

All passengers boarding a domestic flight will need to be REAL ID-compliant by May 3, 2023. If your driver’s license or ID card has a star and/or flag or it says “Enhanced,” that means you’re complaint.

Check out these examples of what a compliant ID looks like from the Department of Homeland Security:

For more information about the REAL ID Act, check out the Department of Homeland Security’s FAQs or reach out to a member of our team - we’re always ready to help!