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When is the deadline to obtain a Texas Real ID for air travel?

Your ID is considered compliant if there is a gold star in the top right corner

A sample of a REAL ID in Texas (State of Texas, Copyright 2025 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

SAN ANTONIO – If you plan to fly this summer, be aware of a new requirement.

By May 7, all Texas-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards must be REAL ID compliant to fly domestically in the U.S. and access federal facilities.

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This is because of the federal REAL ID Act, which establishes certain security standards for state-issued cards.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has specified when REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards are required:

  • Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft domestically
  • Entering nuclear power plants
  • Accessing certain federal facilities

According to the Texas government website, to get a REAL ID-compliant card, Texans must schedule an online appointment. You will also need:

  • An original or certified copy of a birth certificate or unexpired U.S. passport book or card
  • A Social Security card
  • A current Texas vehicle registration or title
  • A current car insurance policy or car insurance statement
  • If your name changed, legal documents showing proof of name change from the name at birth

About the Author
Avery Meurer headshot

Avery Meurer is a Content Gatherer for KSAT 12. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Communications/Radio, Television and Film, as well as a Creative Writing Certificate. A native San Antonian, Avery attended the Northeast School of the Arts (NESA) majoring in musical theater and creative writing.