How to make sure you can fly after the REAL ID deadline arrives

As of today, May 7, 2025, the long-awaited REAL ID requirement is officially in effect across the United States. 

After years of delays and mounting anticipation, travelers must now show a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a valid passport or another federally approved form of identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. 

The rush to comply has led to packed DMVs, long lines and plenty of confusion about what's actually required, especially among retired military members.

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Fred from Oklahoma summed up the concerns many are feeli...