Thousands of Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort vacations are facing cancellations and delays due to the new enforcement of the REAL ID Act, which officially took effect on May 7, 2025. Under these new regulations, travelers who do not possess REAL ID-compliant identification will be denied access to flights, even if they already have airline tickets or Disney Resort reservations.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was introduced as a national security measure following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The law sets federal standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, requiring a star to be placed in the upper right corner of compliant IDs. Originally set to take effect in 2008, the deadline for enforcement was postponed several times, with delays caused by implementation issues in various states and the COVID-19 pandemic. But those delays are over.
As of May 7, adults without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, U.S. passport, DHS Trusted Traveler card, or military ID will be turned away at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. However, minors under 18 are not required to have a REAL ID, provided they are traveling with an adult who meets the new identification requirements.
For those planning to fly into popular theme park destinations like Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), this change means that without the proper identification, their Disney vacations could be in jeopardy. The TSA has stated that while some passengers who traveled before the May 7 deadline will be allowed to return on their round-trip flights without a REAL ID, they will face additional screening and are not guaranteed entry.
As Disney vacations are a major draw for travelers, this shift in regulations could significantly impact many guests who are eager to visit the parks. Potential travelers should check their identification before booking their flights and upgrade to a REAL ID if they haven’t already.
Disney Parks fans are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid any disruption to their trip. The deadline has arrived, and failure to meet these identification requirements could mean being turned away at the airport.
Does the REAL ID Act impact your Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort travel plans? Disney Dining would love to hear from you in the comments!
