As of January 27, 2025, the deadline for REAL ID enforcement is fast approaching. Starting May 7, 2025, residents of Washington State and the rest of the United States will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare.

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID is a federal requirement for state-issued driver licenses and identification cards to meet specific security standards. These changes were introduced to enhance the security of identification used for accessing federal facilities and domestic air travel.

Options for REAL ID-Compliant Identification in Washington State

Washington residents have several options to ensure compliance with REAL ID requirements:

Enhanced Driver License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EID):

These are REAL ID-compliant and can be used for domestic air travel and accessing federal facilities.

An EDL/EID can also serve as an alternative to a passport for re-entry into the U.S. at land and sea borders between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

U.S. Passport or Passport Card:

Both options are accepted for domestic flights and federal facility access.

Other Federal Identifications:

U.S. Military ID and Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards) are also acceptable under REAL ID standards.

What About Standard Driver Licenses?

Standard Washington State driver licenses and ID cards will not be accepted for domestic flights or entry into federal facilities starting May 7, 2025. If you currently hold a standard license or ID, consider upgrading to an Enhanced Driver License or obtaining a passport to meet these new requirements.

 

Preparing for May 7, 2025

While there have been discussions about delaying the full enforcement of REAL ID until May 2027, the official enforcement date remains May 7, 2025, as of now. To avoid any disruptions to your travel plans or access to federal facilities, it’s best to prepare well in advance.

How to Upgrade to an Enhanced Driver License or ID Card

Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing for detailed information about the process.

Bring proof of U.S. citizenship, identity, and Washington residency when applying for an EDL or EID.

Schedule your appointment early to avoid last-minute delays.

Stay Informed

For the latest updates and additional details, visit:

Department of Homeland Security REAL ID FAQs

Washington State Department of Licensing REAL ID Information

At Precision Notary, we are committed to keeping our community informed about important developments. If you need assistance with notarizing documents for your passport application or other identification needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. Visit us at precision-notary.com for more information.

Linda, Precision Notary