Security laws passed 20 years ago require many Americans to renew their driver's license or identification to comply with their actual ID.
With the deadline approaching May 7th, some conservatives have urged President Donald Trump to abolish the inconvenient requirement that it violates civil liberties.
What is an actual ID and why is it important?
On May 7th, federal agencies, including Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will no longer accept driver licenses or ID cards that do not have a star in one of the upper corners to represent actual ID verification. For the actual ID verification, the applicant must provide additional verification information, such as a Social Security number.
Flyers that do not have actual ID verification in their licenses should plan to strengthen their passport, passport card, permanent resident resident card, military ID, or driver's license provided by some states.
“Massive Surveillance”: Conservatives warn Trump Administrator's Actual ID Rollout
A sample driver's license using an actual ID. The star in the upper right corner means the actual ID. (DC DMV)
Do travelers turn their backs at the airport without an actual ID?
The TSA says it will begin “phased enforcement” on May 7, but it is unclear whether that means driving away travelers without proper documentation or being exposed to additional security screening.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in a FAQ on its website that “from May 7, 2025, if there is no actual ID compliant license or acceptable alternative, it will not be permitted through security checkpoints.”
Federal regulations established this year said that its “staged approach” could last for two years and could alert people without actual ID verification.
According to DHS, access to other federal and nuclear power plants is also required to have an actual ID.
How do I get the actual ID?
It is possible that a driver who recently renewed his driver's license may already have an actual ID. Check the stars in the top right corner or left corner. Otherwise, check with your local automotive department office for information on how to get your actual ID and how to create an appointment to get a new license.
Documentation is required to show your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, legal status and proof of two addresses. If you do not have a Social Security card, you can provide a W-2 or Pay Stub with your name and Social Security number.
“Real ID” appointments are not open in New Jersey as residents ring out: “With the Times, New Jersey.”
Americans are facing the line in a hurry with DMV to get their actual ID by May 7th. (AP Photo/Mark Lenihan, File)
Why is this happening?
Congress passed and President George W. Bush signed the Actual Identity Act in 2005 after the 9/11 committee warned that it was too easy for bad actors to obtain a driver's license.
The implementation of the law was undermined by delays to implement the new requirements for all 50 states and all US regions, and began issuing federal estimated advanced identification in 2007.
The 2020 deadline has been pushed back multiple times due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Adam Stahl, a senior TSA official, recently announced that Real ID will “enhance safety by forging fraudulent IDs and obstructing criminals and terrorists.”
What is repulsion?
Some on the right shouted fouls and questioned why the previous management delayed implementation, and if that was necessary now.
When Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem posted a video reminding Americans of the May 7 deadline, former Alaska governor and vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin responded:
Airline passengers will need to view their actual IDs from May 7th, but it says DHS will be “staged implementation.” (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Palin continues: “Other administrations have delayed this new, burdensome, actual ID requirement. Are you interested in why its implementation is essential? And who came up with this?”
Rep. Thomas Massey (R-Ky.) said, “Why do you care about people who have government permission, unless the pilot's door is locked and no one has a weapon? Actual IDs do not pose any serious risks at will.
Massie took a shot in a follow-up post on Trump. “Real ID is a patriot act from the George Bush era in 2005, not fully strengthened until Trump took office.
Trump ally Rep. Mark Alford, R-Mo. rebuked real ID critics in his own official statement.
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“The actual ID Act goes back 20 years ago to 2005!!! That's when everyone stops pulling their legs. Stop social media, complain, put together information, go to DMV to get their real ID,” Alford said.
The White House was unable to contact us immediately due to comments about criticism of the actual ID.
Liz Elkind of Fox News contributed to this report.
