Here’s what you should know.
Millions of Americans are racing to meet the federal REAL ID deadline, as states that recently gave driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants have left U.S. citizens dealing with long lines, backlogs, and delays. Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or a valid passport to board a domestic flight, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
This urgent push for compliance comes after 19 states and Washington, D.C. passed controversial laws giving standard driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants, triggering outrage among voters who believe American citizens should come first.
✅ REAL ID required for domestic flights
❌ Illegal immigrants cannot use standard licenses to fly
🛂 Only U.S. citizens and legal residents qualify for REAL ID
What Is REAL ID and Why Does It Matter?
Originally passed in 2005 in response to 9/11, the REAL ID Act created higher security standards for IDs. But until now, enforcement was delayed under both Democrat and Republican administrations. That changed under President Donald Trump, who ordered a full rollout of the program to secure air travel and stop illegal border crossers from flying within the U.S.
Now, DHS says that without a REAL ID-compliant card, passport, or military ID, you won’t be allowed through TSA for domestic air travel.
And here’s the real kicker: while U.S. citizens are scrambling to comply, illegal aliens in liberal states are being handed licenses with fewer security checks.
States That Prioritize Illegals Over Citizens
These 19 states currently allow illegal immigrants to receive driver’s licenses:
Utah, Connecticut, Oregon, New Jersey, Hawaii, Virginia, Minnesota, New Mexico, California, Rhode Island, Washington, Vermont, Maryland, Delaware, New York, Nevada, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Colorado.
In New Jersey, for example, the number of permits issued spiked 65% in just three months after the law changed in 2021. At the same time, American citizens are being told to wait weeks or even months to get an appointment for a REAL ID.
“We’re being treated like second-class citizens,” said one frustrated traveler.
“Illegals are walking in and getting licenses—no proof of identity, no problem.”
Trump’s DHS Cracks Down: ‘Only Verified Travelers Can Fly’
A new memo from Trump’s Department of Homeland Security reveals a clear motive behind enforcing REAL ID: to stop illegal aliens from using fake or low-security IDs to fly inside the U.S.
“REAL ID’s higher standards make it nearly impossible to forge documents,” the memo states.
“The only flight an illegal alien should be boarding is one heading out of the country.”
Under the Biden administration, many illegals boarded planes using non-compliant IDs issued in sanctuary cities. But under President Trump’s leadership, those loopholes are being closed.
Massachusetts GOP Gov Warned of Foreign Document Loopholes
Even some moderate Republicans have sounded the alarm. In 2022, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker vetoed a Democrat bill allowing illegals to get licenses, saying state DMV staff couldn’t verify documents from foreign countries.
“A Massachusetts driver’s license should mean something,” Baker said.
“This legislation weakens the entire system.”
Voters later overruled him through a ballot measure—just another example of how left-wing policies are reshaping American life.
REAL ID: Essential for Travel, Essential for Security
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said last week that over 80% of travelers now hold compliant IDs, and the department is working closely with local governments to speed up processing.
“REAL ID makes it harder for criminals and terrorists to forge IDs,” she said.
“We’re focused on helping Americans get ready while keeping our nation safe.”
What You Need to Know Before the May 7, 2025 Deadline
- ✅ REAL ID is REQUIRED for domestic air travel
- ✅ U.S. citizens and legal residents are eligible
- ✅ U.S. passports, military IDs still accepted
- ❌ Standard licenses from sanctuary states won’t be valid for flying
- ❌ Illegal immigrants are not eligible for REAL ID
The Bottom Line for American Patriots
While radical lawmakers continue pushing for illegal immigrant privileges, REAL ID is one of the last safeguards protecting our airports, our borders, and our families. President Trump’s leadership on this issue is restoring common sense and putting America First—right where it belongs.
