The federal deadline is May 7, 2025, for those who wish to use their state-issued credential for air travel. Without the Arizona Travel ID or other form of federally compliant identification such as a valid U.S. passport, fliers risk missing domestic airline flights because Arizona’s standard driver license, which will remain valid for state purposes, will not be accepted at TSA checkpoints.
The Arizona Travel ID requires added proof of identification to ensure that your license or identification meets strict requirements of the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. A gold star on the card shows that you’ve provided this additional information.
You can walk into an office to upgrade to an Arizona Travel ID, but we suggest scheduling an appointment through Live Chat or online here. Even if you haven’t activated your AZ MVD NOW account, you can still schedule an appointment.
Because the Arizona Travel ID is compliant with the federal standards, you will need to provide extra documentation. This includes:
- Proof of identity: a birth certificate or U.S. passport
- Social Security Number: just the number, not the card
- Two documents proving Arizona residency: rental or bank statements, credit card or cell phone bills in your name with your current Arizona address, etc.
Get more information and a full list of qualifying documents here.
If you are traveling this season, be safe and make sure to schedule an appointment for your Travel ID in 2024 to be ready for the 2025 deadline.
