Heading Out on Your Honeymoon This Summer? Here’s What to Know About REAL ID Requirements

Before heading out on your honeymoon, there are likely a number of different tasks on your to-do list. In addition to confirming your dinner reservations, coordinating transportation to and from your hotel, and, of course, double-checking that you’ve packed everything you could possibly need, as of this month, you’ll also want to make sure you have a REAL ID. On May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that all U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant before boarding a flight. Whether you and your partner booked a domestic honeymoon or are just connecting through another U.S. city on your way to your international destination, the last issue you want to encounter is missing your flight due to you not having a REAL ID. Below, we break down everything you need to know about these new identification requirements as a newlywed.

What Is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license that complies with new federal security standards. Such a card will have a gold star or symbol in the upper right-hand corner to indicate that it’s a REAL ID.

What Should You Do If You Don’t Have a REAL ID for Your Honeymoon?

Bring your passport to the airport. Even if you’re not heading out on an international honeymoon, your passport is considered an acceptable form of identification to show TSA. If you don’t have a passport or it’s expired, you can also show a trusted traveler document, such as a Global Entry card, or permanent resident card. Head to TSA’s website for a complete list of acceptable forms of identification.

However, if you don’t have an acceptable form of identification, you may still be able to fly. In such a case, after arriving at the airport, a TSA officer will ask you to complete a verification process to confirm your identity. However, know that this process, which typically requires additional screening, can take longer—and doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.

Should You Arrive Earlier to the Airpot for Your Honeymoon With New REAL ID Requirements?

It depends. If you don’t have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, TSA recommends you show up three hours prior to your flight to ensure you have enough time to go through additional screening. However, if you do have a REAL ID, there isn’t much to change about your normal airport routine. Most airports across the U.S. haven’t reported any massive delays as a result of the rule change.

How Long Does It Take to Get a REAL ID?

If you’re hoping to get a REAL ID before heading out on your honeymoon this summer, you may be out of luck. Many DMVs have reported longer wait times, as people rush to get the proper identification before their next trip. Rules on whether you need to go in person or not to obtain your REAL ID vary state to state. Check your state’s website to see what rules are in place. And if you see no appointments available, be patient. Some states are extending their hours (and adding additional appointments) to account for the new REAL ID requirements.