Travelers will soon need to supply 'compliant identification' for all domestic flights

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Next month travelers will need compliant identification to board domestic flights. A compliant ID is different than a non-compliant or standard ID, but the difference may be confusing for some people.

Travel consultant Fred Kerner shared if you plan on taking a trip anytime soon and you have been putting off getting a compliant ID, now is the time to get it changed.

“If they're not paying attention to this rule, when they go to the airport on May 7 thereafter, they're going to be in for a shock because they're going to check in for their flight and they're going to say, can't use that,” Kerner said.

Everyone who plans to travel in the United States will need a real compliant ID soon, as the non-compliant ID will no longer be accepted. A TSA spokesperson said in a statement to NBC4.

“On May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older must have a real ID-compliant ID. TSA is working to avoid checkpoint delays by encouraging all travelers to get their real IDs now.”

To get your ID changed you must go to your local BMV with the required documents such as proof of identity, social security number, and Ohio residency.

“There is a lot of confusion on that and what a lot of people don't realize and some of the groups that I've been talking with,” Kerner said.

He noted that there are two different types of IDs.

“The compliant version, you'll have a star in the upper right-hand corner of the ID, and you can use that as your ID when you're traveling by air within the continental United States,” he said.

Kerner explained that people need to know the difference and before booking a trip, make sure they go to a local BMV. He also notes people could potentially lose money on various travel expenses if they don't get the compliant ID.

“With regards to hotels and everything else, you got to read the if you're booking online, you got to read the terms and conditions because they have certain restrictions as far as when you can cancel and whether or not you would get a full refund or maybe even a partial refund,” Kerner said.

If you don't have a compliant ID during your time of travel, you can use your passport to fly. to see a full list of the documents need when you come to the BMV click here Ohio BMV.