Real ID enforcement begins May 7, 2025; Utah travelers urged to bring compliant identification

Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers 18 and older who intend to use a state driver's license or identification card at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints will need a Real ID–compliant credential, an expert guest said on Capital City News.

"You will need to show a real ID compliant credential," the unidentified speaker stated while outlining the change. The guest said Utah driver's licenses and ID cards that meet the federal Real ID standard include a gold star in the upper-right corner.

The speaker listed other forms of identification that TSA accepts at security checkpoints: a U.S. passport or passport card; active-duty military credentials (CAC) and dependent military credentials; DHS trusted-traveler credentials such as Global Entry; lawful permanent resident cards; border crossing cards; foreign government passports; and Department of Veterans Affairs health identification cards.

The guest also said the Utah Department of Public Safety estimates compliance among Utah residents to be "above 95 percent," and directed listeners to TSA.gov for the complete, official list of acceptable documents. "You can find these on our website at TSA.gov," the speaker said.

Because the speaker on the program was not identified by name or agency in the broadcast, travelers should confirm details with official sources before travel. The TSA website and the Utah Department of Public Safety provide the most current guidance on acceptable credentials and implementation timelines.