As of May 7, 2025, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun enforcing the REAL ID Act, requiring travelers to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
However, military personnel and veterans can rest assured: several Department of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) identification cards remain valid alternatives under the new regulations.
What Is the REAL ID Act?
Enacted in 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, the REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. These standards aim to enhance the reliability and accuracy of state-issued identification documents, thereby improving national security.
After multiple extensions, full enforcement began on May 7, 2025.
Under the Act, individuals aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant license or an acceptable alternative to:
- Board federally regulated commercial aircraft
- Access federal facilities, including military bases
- Enter nuclear power plants
REAL ID-compliant cards are typically marked with a star in the upper portion of the card. Non-compliant cards are labeled accordingly and are not accepted for federal identification purposes.
Acceptable Military and Veteran ID Cards
For military personnel, veterans, and their families, several DoD and VA-issued identification cards are recognized as acceptable alternatives to a REAL ID for air travel and access to federal facilities:
Common Access Card
The CAC is the standard identification for active-duty military personnel, Selected Reserve, National Guard, DoD civilian employees, and eligible contractors. It serves both as a physical access card and a digital credential.
As of June 2022, updated CACs are compatible with TSA security checkpoints at all U.S. airports.
Uniformed Services ID Card
Also known as the Geneva Conventions Identification Card, the USID is issued to military retirees, dependents, and certain other eligible individuals. It allows access to military installations and benefits such as commissaries and healthcare.
Veteran Health Identification Card
Issued by the VA, the VHIC is provided to veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare system. It displays the veteran’s name, photo, and eligibility indicators. It is accepted for access to military bases, especially for veterans with service-connected disabilities.
TSA Guidelines for Military and Veteran IDs
The TSA recognizes the following as acceptable forms of identification at security checkpoints:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DoD-issued CAC
- DoD-issued USID
- VA-issued VHIC
- Permanent resident card (Green Card)
- DHS trusted traveler cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
Considerations for Travelers Without a REAL ID
Travelers who lack a REAL ID and do not possess an acceptable alternative may still be permitted to fly but will be subject to additional screening. The Department of Homeland Security advises such travelers to arrive early and be prepared for extended processing.
Activities Not Requiring a REAL ID
REAL ID is not required for the following:
- Driving
- Voting
- Applying for or receiving federal benefits (e.g., VA, Social Security)
- Accessing hospitals or receiving life-saving services
- Participating in law enforcement proceedings
Obtaining a REAL ID
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, visit your state DMV and bring:
- Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two documents proving state residency (e.g., utility bills)
Requirements vary slightly by state check with your local DMV.
Conclusion
While the REAL ID Act introduces new travel and access requirements, military personnel and veterans are well-covered with existing DoD and VA-issued IDs. These cards remain valid for travel and access to federal facilities, eliminating the urgency for REAL ID compliance for many in the military community.
External Resources
- TSA REAL ID Info
- DHS REAL ID Guide
- VA Health ID Card Info