AZ Travel ID deadline update: Feds promote possible phased deadline approach

Greek philosopher Heraclitus said, “The only constant in life is change.” Well, that aptly describes the deadline for the Arizona Travel ID, known nationally as REAL ID. 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on its phased approach for enforcement of the REAL ID regulations after the May 7, 2025, enforcement deadline. This would provide federal agencies such as the TSA flexibility to determine whether a phased approach to enforcement is appropriate after considering security, operational feasibility and impact to the public. 

The proposal discusses phasing in enforcement over a period of two years, beginning on May 7 of next year. ADOT’s Motor Vehicle Division follows TSA guidelines and still encourages people to consider getting the Arizona Travel ID to avoid delays or other travel issues at TSA checkpoints starting May 7, 2025, and during the two years of the phased enforcement. 

This credential is distinguished by a gold star in the upper right corner and is available to Arizona residents as a driver license or identification card.  

You can walk into an MVD office for this service, but we suggest scheduling an appointment and that can be done online at azmvdnow.gov. Even if you haven’t activated your AZ MVD NOW account, you can still schedule a Travel ID appointment. 

Because the Arizona Travel ID is compliant with the federal standards, you will need to provide extra documentation like a birth certificate, Social Security number and proof of Arizona residency.

So if your 2025 travel plans include flying across the country for work, vacation or even a philosophy seminar or conference, you may want to update your ID to the Arizona Travel ID and avoid any unnecessary travel delays.

More information and a full list of qualifying documents are available at azdot.gov/TravelID