The REAL ID Act and the Department 

The Department is committed to complying with the REAL ID Act's phased enforcement schedule and regulatory timeframes. As such, the Department will utilize a phased implementation plan, ensuring full enforcement of the REAL ID Act by January 1, 2026. 

Please note that starting on January 1, 2026, for visitors presenting a state-issued driver's license or identification card, the Department of Commerce will only accept such documents if they are REAL ID-compliant. If your license is not REAL ID-compliant, please bring an alternate form of government-issued photo ID, such as: 

• Passport;
• Enhanced Driver's License; or
• Federal employee, military, or veteran identification card.  

Please check with your sponsor or escort to determine whether you will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant identification card to visit a particular facility. 

Background

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production pursuant to recommendations by the 9/11 Commission. The law prohibits federal agencies from accepting, for certain purposes, driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting minimum REAL ID Act standards. The law covers access to federal facilities, nuclear power plants, and federally regulated commercial aircraft.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on December 20, 2013, a phased enforcement plan for the REAL ID Act to implement it in a measured, fair, and responsible way.

Implementation

DHS extended the REAL ID full enforcement deadline from October 1, 2021, to May 7, 2025, according to a final rule notice in the March 9, 2023, Federal Register.

Limitations

The Real ID Act does not require individuals to present identification to enter public areas of the Smithsonian, for example, or other federal facilities where it is not currently required. The laws do not prohibit an agency from accepting other forms of identification such as a U.S. passport or passport card.

Resources

More REAL ID Act information, including how to obtain a REAL ID, is available on the DHS website.