What is a real id card?

A Real ID card is a enhanced form of identification that complies with the Real ID Act, enacted in the United States in 2005. It is designed to improve security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards, making them more reliable for federal purposes, such as boarding commercial flights and accessing federal facilities. Real ID cards typically include specific security features and require additional documentation for issuance, such as proof of identity and residency. Starting May 2025, travelers will need a Real ID or another accepted form of ID to board flights.