Starting tomorrow, May 7, 2025, thousands of Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort vacations may face indefinite delays or cancellations due to the enforcement of the REAL ID Act. This long-awaited regulation, which has been delayed several times over the years, will now go into effect, potentially impacting domestic air travel for many Disney vacationers.
What is the REAL ID Act?
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act was part of a series of post-9/11 security measures designed to standardize state-issued identification. The law requires that driver’s licenses and state IDs meet federal standards, including a star in the upper right-hand corner of the card, marking it as REAL ID-compliant.
While the requirement was set to take effect in 2008, various delays, including issues with state compliance and the COVID-19 pandemic, have extended the deadline. Now, after nearly two decades of delays, the Department of Homeland Security will officially begin enforcing the law, starting May 7, 2025.
To board a domestic flight, travelers must now have one of the following forms of identification:
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A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID (marked with a star)
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A U.S. passport or passport card
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A DHS Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
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A Military ID or another federally approved form of identification
Anyone without one of these IDs will not be able to fly domestically and could face delays or cancellations, regardless of whether they’ve purchased a Disney vacation package or airline tickets.
Impact on Disney Vacationers
Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort welcome millions of guests each year, many of whom travel by air. If travelers don’t have a compliant ID by the enforcement date, they will be turned away at airport security. TSA officials have stated that there will be no exceptions, so all travelers 18 and older must have a valid REAL ID-compliant form of ID to board a domestic flight.
Travelers under 18 do not require a compliant ID as long as an adult with the proper identification accompanies them.
For Disney visitors planning to fly, it’s important to check that you have a compliant ID before your trip. If not, you’ll need to visit your local DMV to upgrade your identification before your flight. Don’t risk your vacation plans being delayed or canceled simply because of an outdated or non-compliant ID!
Does this requirement change how you feel about flying domestically? Disney Dining would love to hear your opinion in the comments!
