PHOENIX, AZ — Time is running out for air travellers to ensure they have the proper identification. Beginning May 7, 2025, the long-awaited Real ID requirements have taken effect nationwide, and without the correct identification, travellers will be unable to pass through airport security or access certain federal facilities.
How to Know If Your License is Real ID-Ready
In Arizona, the Real ID is known as the Arizona Travel ID, and it’s easily recognizable by a gold or black star located in the upper right corner of the license.
“Starting May 7, your ID must have that gold or black star in the corner to pass through airport security checkpoints or enter federal buildings,” state officials remind travellers.
Most Real ID cards issued by other states also include either a solid gold or black star, or a clear star inside a gold or black circle. For California residents, the Real ID features a clear star inside a gold bear, a nod to the state flag.
If your license says “Not for federal identification,” it means it is not Real ID-compliant.
What Do the Gold and Black Stars Mean?
Whether your license has a gold star or a black star, both indicate that your identification is Real ID-compliant. In Arizona:
- Licenses issued before 2023 carry a gold star.
- Licenses issued since 2023 carry a black star.
The presence of either star ensures that the ID meets federal requirements for airport security and federal building access.
How to Get an Arizona Travel ID
To obtain an Arizona Travel ID, residents can apply at state Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) offices or approved third-party providers. Applicants must bring the necessary documents, such as proof of identity, proof of legal presence, proof of Social Security number, and two documents verifying Arizona residency.
The Arizona Travel ID costs $25 and is valid for eight years.
Avoid Last-Minute Scramble
With the deadline quickly approaching, officials are urging residents to avoid waiting until the last minute.
“People are applying for Real IDs at state motor vehicle offices and approved third-party offices. They arrive with the necessary documents so they’ll be ready to fly and avoid the consequences of not having one,” officials explained.
Without a Real ID, travelers will need an alternative form of federally accepted identification, such as a passport, to board domestic flights.
For more information, Arizona residents can visit the Arizona Department of Transportation website.
