How to Ensure Your Arizona ID Is Real ID Compliant Before the Deadline
If you live in Arizona and plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings after the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline, it’s essential to make sure your driver license or state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will only accept REAL ID-compliant licenses or identification cards for airport security and other federally regulated facilities. Failing to have the proper ID could result in being denied boarding for domestic flights or entry to certain secure government locations.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your Arizona ID meets REAL ID requirements — from identifying whether your ID is compliant to upgrading it at your local Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office.
What Is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to enhance the security of state-issued identification documents following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It sets minimum security standards for license issuance and production, making it more difficult for identity fraud and impersonation to occur.
REAL ID-compliant licenses are accepted for:
- Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft (domestic flights)
- Accessing federal facilities such as courthouses, military bases, and nuclear power plants
How to Know If Your Arizona ID Is REAL ID Compliant
To check if your current Arizona driver license or ID card is REAL ID-compliant, look at the top right corner of your card:
- A gold star indicates it is REAL ID-compliant.
- If there’s no star or it says “Not for Federal Identification,” it is not compliant.
Without a compliant ID, you’ll need to use an alternative form of identification such as a U.S. passport or military ID when traveling or entering federal buildings after the May 7, 2025 deadline.
What Is the Arizona Travel ID?
Arizona’s version of a REAL ID-compliant card is known as the Arizona Travel ID. It meets all the federal requirements for REAL ID and is available as both a driver license and a non-operating ID card.
You can apply for an Arizona Travel ID at any Arizona MVD office or authorized third-party provider. It’s valid for eight years for most applicants and costs $25.
What You’ll Need to Get an Arizona Travel ID
To obtain a Travel ID, you must provide documents that verify four key areas:
1. Proof of Identity
Provide ONE of the following:
- Certified U.S. birth certificate
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
2. Proof of Social Security Number
Provide ONE of the following:
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- Pay stub with full SSN
3. Two Proofs of Arizona Residency
Provide TWO of the following:
- Utility bill
- Lease or rental agreement
- Bank statement
- Insurance policy
Note: Documents must be dated within the last 60 days and must show your name and Arizona residential address.
4. Name Change Documentation (if applicable)
If your current legal name is different from the one on your identity documents, bring certified documents (e.g., marriage certificate, court order) showing the legal name change.
How to Apply for the Arizona Travel ID
Step 1: Make an Appointment
While walk-ins may be accepted at some locations, it’s strongly recommended to schedule an appointment through the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) MVD website for faster service.
Visit azmvdnow.gov to book your appointment.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Use the MVD’s interactive document guide on their website to double-check that you have all the correct and acceptable documentation.
Step 3: Visit the MVD Office
Arrive early and bring original documents (no photocopies). Submit your application, pay the $25 fee, and have your photo taken.
Step 4: Receive Your Travel ID
You’ll typically receive a temporary ID the same day and the permanent Travel ID in the mail within 15 business days.
What If You Don’t Upgrade to a Travel ID?
If you don’t get a REAL ID-compliant Arizona Travel ID by May 7, 2025, you will need an alternative federally approved ID for:
- Boarding domestic flights
- Entering secure federal facilities
Approved alternatives include:
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, Nexus, SENTRI)
- U.S. military ID
- Permanent Resident Card
- Tribal-issued photo ID
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bringing photocopies instead of original documents.
- Forgetting proof of residency — you need TWO documents.
- Assuming your current license is compliant — always check for the gold star.
- Waiting until the last minute — demand will increase as the deadline approaches, possibly leading to longer wait times and delays.
Special Considerations for Snowbirds and College Students
If you reside in Arizona seasonally or are studying out-of-state but wish to fly domestically from Arizona or another state, it’s still a good idea to get the Arizona Travel ID if Arizona is your permanent residence. Otherwise, make sure you have a valid passport or another form of compliant ID.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
With the May 7, 2025 enforcement date approaching, now is the time to check your Arizona ID and, if necessary, apply for the Travel ID. It only takes a bit of preparation and one visit to ensure you’re ready for future air travel and federal access requirements. Don’t risk being turned away at the airport or a federal building — take action now and secure your Arizona REAL ID-compliant Travel ID.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.