BELLINGHAM — The Real ID deadline has been pushed back, allowing Americans to have more time to obtain their new identification cards. But what does this mean for Washington residents?
Here’s what Washington residents need to know about Real ID, and when they will be affected by the new requirements.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a federal law, not a specific identification card.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 and “set new requirements for identification that federal agencies may accept for domestic air travel and entrance to certain federal facilities,” the Washington State Department of Licensing website states.
The law prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting previously issued identification cards in places such as airports, federal buildings and military bases, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Through the Real ID Act, you may not need to get a new license, but rather use a different form of identification you already have to board airplanes, cross U.S. border crossings or visit military buildings.
Why do I need a Real ID?
On Dec. 5, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security pushed back the deadline for Americans to get their Real IDs from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025.
On May 7, 2025, if you do not have a form of identification that meets the Real ID requirements, federal agencies such as the DHS and TSA may turn you away from entering a federal building or boarding a domestic flight.
“Standard Washington ID cards and driver licenses won’t work for air travel or accessing federal facilities,” the Washington State Department of Licensing website states.
For Washington residents, these forms of identification will be accepted as forms of Real ID, according to the Washington State Department of Licensing:
- Permanent resident card (green card)
- U.S. military ID
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- Foreign passport
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
- Enhanced driver’s license
- Enhanced identification card
“Your standard driver’s license or ID card will work for other U.S. travel like driving in Washington, across state lines, or riding a train,” the state department of licensing’s website says.
How do I get a Real ID in Washington?
If you do not have an enhanced driver’s license, enhanced identification card or other identification forms listed above, contact the Washington State Department of Licensing.
U.S. citizens can learn how to apply for a passport on the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs website.
If you need a green card or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
