Identification Requirements Are Changing for Air Travel and Industries Where UBC Members Work

Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. Members will also need REAL ID-compliant identification for many industries where we work.

Generally, REAL ID compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card, like this:

State-issued enhanced driver’s licenses are also acceptable and marked with a flag. If you’re not sure if your card is REAL ID compliant, contact your state driver’s license agency. Below are examples of REAL ID compliant drivers’ licenses:

Q: How do I know if my license or identification card is REAL ID compliant?
REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of these markings on the upper top portion of the card:.  If the card does not have one of those markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won’t be accepted as proof of identity.

Q: If my drivers’ license is not REAL ID compliant, can I use another form of identification to fly?
Yes, you can also use a U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, foreign government-issued passport, Canadian provincial driver’s license, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card or other forms of identification accepted by TSA. For more examples: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

Q: What if my acceptable form of ID has expired?
TSA currently accepts expired ID up to a year after expiration for some forms of ID. Learn more about REAL ID on TSA’s Real ID webpage: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.