The deadline is here. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin enforcing new federal identification rules for all U.S. airports. That means if you want to board a domestic flight, you must present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification.
In this second post in our “Ready to Fly? Navigating REAL ID and Travel Safety in 2025” series, we’ll break down what these new rules mean for Tennessee travelers, what happens if you show up unprepared, and what options are still available for last-minute flyers.
TSA Will Require REAL ID for Domestic Flights
After May 7, a standard driver’s license is no longer enough to board a domestic flight. To pass through TSA security, you’ll need either:
- A REAL ID-compliant license (marked with a star in a circle)
- A valid U.S. passport
- A Department of Defense ID, permanent resident card, or other federally approved identification
If you don’t have one of these with you at the airport, you may not be allowed to board your flight.
TSA officers will be strictly enforcing this rule at all U.S. airports, including Nashville International Airport (BNA) and other regional airports throughout Tennessee.
What If You Show Up Without a REAL ID?
If you show up at the airport without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative, here’s what may happen:
- You could be denied entry to the TSA checkpoint
- You may be forced to miss your flight
- You could experience long delays or additional screening, and in many cases, not be allowed to travel at all
TSA has been very clear: no REAL ID, no domestic flight—unless you have another approved ID.
This change has been delayed several times in the past, but as of 2025, it is now fully enforced.
Children Under 18 Are Exempt
If you’re traveling with children, good news: minors under the age of 18 do not need a REAL ID when flying with an adult. However, the accompanying adult must present compliant identification.
Make sure everyone in your party over 18 is prepared—this includes older teens heading to college or traveling for summer break.
Still Need to Fly? Use These Alternatives
If you haven’t gotten your REAL ID yet but have travel coming up, there are still several forms of ID that TSA accepts at airport checkpoints.
Note: The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. TSA strongly encourages travelers to check the list before flying to ensure they have valid identification. Do not arrive at the airport without an acceptable ID.
Here are some TSA-approved alternatives to REAL ID:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including dependent IDs
- Permanent resident card (Green Card)
- Border crossing card
- Tribal-issued photo ID, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
- Note: Tennessee does not issue EDLs
- HSPD-12 PIV card (federal employee ID)
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Employment Authorization Card (Form I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
If you arrive at the airport without one of these, you may not be allowed to board your flight.
TSA officers will strictly enforce these rules at all U.S. airports, including Nashville International Airport (BNA) and regional airports across Tennessee.
You can view the most current list of acceptable identification here:
🔗 tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
If you don’t have any of the IDs listed above, your best option is to apply for a REAL ID at a Tennessee Driver Services Center or County Clerk office as soon as possible.
Last-Minute Tips for Tennessee Travelers
If you’re trying to fly without a REAL ID:
- Check your wallet for a passport or passport card
- Contact the airline to explore options or reschedule your flight
- Call ahead to TSA to see if you can be accommodated through alternate screening (not guaranteed)
Remember: Tennessee REAL ID appointments may be limited, and walk-in wait times are often long. If you have no valid ID, consider delaying your travel until you’re compliant.
Know Before You Go
The May 7 REAL ID deadline is a major change for Tennessee travelers. If you’re planning to fly for business, vacation, or a family visit, make sure your identification is in order before you head to the airport.
Don’t risk being turned away at the gate.
Injured on the Road While Traveling?
At Stillman & Friedland, we help Middle Tennessee families recover after accidents—whether it happens on the highway, in a rental car, or while traveling to or from the airport. If you or someone you love is injured while traveling, we are here to help.
Call us today at 615-244-2111 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Because we care…
Stillman and Friedland
