REAL ID Required for Flights & Federal Buildings Starting May 7—Are TPS Holders Eligible?

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will fully implement the Real ID requirement starting May 7, 2025. The deadline for American travelers to update their driver’s licenses or state IDs for domestic flights and entry into federal buildings is now less than four months away.

The TSA has published its final ruling, confirming that the Real ID requirement will take effect on May 7, with no further extensions. After this date, a Real ID with a star will be required to board flights or enter federal buildings in the U.S.

Can I get a Real ID with a star if I have TPS?

Yes, TPS holders can obtain a Real ID. However, the validity of your driver’s license or ID card will generally depend on the length of your TPS status.

Since Nepali TPS has been extended until June 24, 2025, you can obtain a Real ID or driver’s license valid until that date. You can also apply for a Real ID even if your TPS is currently approved or pending.

The ID will be issued for the duration of your lawful stay in the U.S. If there is no fixed end date for your lawful stay, the ID will typically be valid for one year. When applying for a Real ID, you must present a work permit with category codes A12 or C19.

Even if your work permit’s expiration date has already been printed, it is automatically extended until June 24, 2025. Therefore, you do not need to present a newly issued work permit. Instead, you can print and bring a copy of the Federal Register notice extending Nepal’s TPS designation. Officials can also verify your immigration status through the SAVE system.

Background on Real ID

The Real ID Act was passed in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and was signed into law by President George W. Bush on May 11, 2005. Initially planned for full implementation in 2008, the deadline has been extended multiple times, most recently due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For a state-issued driver’s license or state ID to be federally accepted, states must adopt uniform security standards. These measures aim to reduce identity fraud and enhance national security.

How to Check If You Already Have a Real ID

Some states have been issuing Real IDs for years. If you have received or recently renewed your license, it may already be Real ID-compliant. You can check by looking for a star on your ID.

  • In New York, U.S. citizens can also receive an ID with an American flag symbol.
  • Some states use a gold star, while others use a black star on Real IDs.
  • Hawaii, Ohio, Tennessee, and Utah do not have a star on their Real IDs.

How to Apply for a Real ID

To obtain a Real ID with a star, you must visit a DMV office in person with the required documents. You should schedule an appointment online before your visit.

When you go to the DMV, bring the following:

  1. Proof of identity – U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, work permit, Green Card, or foreign passport with an I-94 approval.
  2. Social Security proof – Social Security card, W-2, or a pay stub showing your SSN.
  3. Proof of residency – Utility bill, lease, or any official document proving your address.

What Happens If You Don’t Have a Real ID?

If your ID does not have a star, you can still use it to board domestic flights until May 7, 2025. However, after this date, you will need a valid passport, U.S. military ID, or another federally recognized ID to fly within the U.S. or enter federal facilities.

Click here to check the required documents before visiting the DMV.