TSA Warns Travelers Without REAL ID Should Arrive 3 Hours Early — Here's How to Skip the Hassle
A guide to the REAL ID deadline, TSA requirements, and how to use credit card perks to skip airport hassles in 2025.
With the REAL ID deadline of May 7 now past, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is issuing a stark warning to air travelers: if you don't have a REAL ID-compliant license or an acceptable alternative form of identification, prepare to spend a lot more time at the airport.
According to TSA spokesperson Daniel D. Velez, passengers without compliant identification should plan to arrive at the airport a full three hours before their departure time to allow for additional screening procedures. "If they do not have any acceptable ID, we strongly suggest they arrive to the airport 3 hours prior to their departure time," Velez told Gizmodo.
For points and miles enthusiasts looking to maximize both time and travel rewards, this presents a perfect opportunity to leverage credit card perks that can help you bypass these headaches entirely. Let's dive into your options for ensuring smooth travels despite the new requirements.
What You Need to Know About REAL ID Enforcement
After numerous extensions over the past 20 years, the REAL ID deadline is finally being enforced starting May 7, 2025. TSA Senior Official Adam Stahl confirmed that "Secretary Noem and the Trump administration are enforcing the 2005 REAL ID Act and regulations on May 7, as directed by Congress and the American people."
If you don't have a REAL ID or acceptable alternative, the consequences could be serious. "Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (e.g., passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint," according to the TSA.
How can you tell if your license is REAL ID compliant? Look for a star in the upper right-hand corner. Some states like California include the star within another symbol (like a golden bear), but most states simply display a star.
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID
If you don't have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license yet, don't panic. Several other forms of identification are accepted at TSA checkpoints, including:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Federally recognized Tribal photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Many travelers aren't aware that Trusted Traveler Program cards like Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI can serve as acceptable identification for domestic flights. This is especially valuable information for frequent international travelers who already maintain these memberships.
The Smart Traveler's Solution: Global Entry
For Points Party readers looking to maximize efficiency, Global Entry stands out as the premier solution. Not only does a Global Entry card serve as an acceptable ID at TSA checkpoints (meaning you don't need a REAL ID), but it also provides:
- TSA PreCheck benefits included at no additional cost
- Expedited customs processing when returning to the U.S. from international trips
- Five years of coverage for a one-time fee of $120
While $120 might seem steep compared to simply getting a REAL ID from your local DMV, here's where your credit card strategy comes into play: many premium travel cards offer statement credits that completely cover this fee.
Best Credit Cards That Cover Global Entry Fees
Several travel rewards cards offer statement credits specifically for Global Entry application fees. When you charge the $120 fee to these cards, you'll receive a statement credit, effectively making your Global Entry membership free:
Premium Options (Annual Fees $395+)
- The Platinum Card® from American Express - Offers a statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years and extends this benefit to authorized users as well.
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card - Provides up to a $120 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees every four years.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve® - Features a $300 annual travel credit and up to $120 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck.
Mid-Tier Options (Annual Fees $95-$195)
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card - Offers a statement credit of up to $120 for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry once every four years, with a reasonable $95 annual fee.
- IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card - Includes a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit up to $120 every four years
- United Explorer Card - Provides a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years
Many of these cards offer additional travel benefits that far outweigh their annual fees, making them particularly valuable for frequent travelers concerned about REAL ID compliance.
Maximizing Your REAL ID Strategy
For Points Party readers, we recommend the following approach to the REAL ID deadline:
- If you already have Global Entry: You're all set! Your Global Entry card is an acceptable form of ID at TSA checkpoints.
- If you have a premium travel card with Global Entry credit: Apply for Global Entry ASAP if you haven't already. While processing can take several months, having the application pending is better than not starting at all.
- If you're considering a new travel card: This is an excellent time to apply for a card with Global Entry benefits, as you'll immediately put one of the card's key perks to use. Check out our complete guide to credit card application strategies.
- If you frequently travel internationally: Global Entry is almost certainly worth it for you, offering both REAL ID compliance and expedited customs processing.
- If you mostly travel domestically: Consider at minimum applying for TSA PreCheck (costs $78 for 5 years) using a credit card that offers reimbursement. Our TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry comparison can help you decide which is right for you.
What if You Have Neither Option on May 7?
If the REAL ID deadline arrives and you have neither a compliant ID nor a Global Entry card, the TSA states that you may be asked to complete an identity verification process, providing your name and home address. The TSA warns that "travelers without acceptable ID should reportedly get to the airport at least three hours before their flight."
However, even passengers who have a REAL ID or other acceptable ID should aim to be at the airport at least 1½ hours ahead of their flight due to likely delays in security lines as enforcement begins.
Bottom Line
The REAL ID deadline represents both a challenge and an opportunity for savvy travelers. While showing up three hours early might work for some, Points Party readers know there's always a smarter way to travel.
By leveraging travel credit cards that offer Global Entry benefits, you can simultaneously solve your identification issues, speed through security with TSA PreCheck, and breeze through customs on international returns—a triple win that demonstrates once again why strategic credit card usage is essential for maximizing your travel experience.
Remember, even if you do get a REAL ID-compliant license, having Global Entry or at least TSA PreCheck is still valuable for reducing your time spent in security lines. The May 7 deadline is merely highlighting benefits that frequent travelers should already be enjoying.
Have you applied for Global Entry using a credit card benefit?
