*The federal REAL ID requirement took effect on May 7, 2025, yet many Michigan residents are discovering their licenses won’t get them through airport security unless they display the gold star. Fortunately, the state offers a solution and several backup options, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Michigan’s built‑in shortcut
Unlike most of the country, Michigan issues an enhanced driver’s license (EDL) that already satisfies federal standards for domestic flights, entry to federal buildings, and land or sea crossings to Canada, Mexico and parts of the Caribbean. The EDL lacks the REAL ID star, but the Department of Homeland Security treats it the same, no extra paperwork required.
What if you still need a new ID?
Ordering a fresh Michigan license isn’t instant. It takes up to four weeks to receive a new Michigan license after filling out paperwork, the Secretary of State’s office notes, so same‑day turnaround is not an option. Travelers who haven’t upgraded should rely on other documents.
Scroll to continue reading
Acceptable alternatives
The Transportation Security Administration lists more than a dozen IDs that will clear the checkpoint:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Michigan enhanced driver’s license
- Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST trusted‑traveler cards
- U.S. military ID or Veteran Health Identification Card
- Permanent resident or Employment Authorization cards
- Canadian provincial driver’s license
- Federally recognized Tribal photo ID
- Merchant Mariner Credential, HSPD‑12 PIV card, and others
Routine passport processing takes 4–6 weeks (2–3 weeks expedited; 14 days urgent).
If you arrive without an ID
TSA may require you to undergo an identity verification process, which involves providing details such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. The agency states that you will be denied entry to the security checkpoint if you fail to provide acceptable identification, refuse to cooperate, or if your identity cannot be verified.
Bottom line
Anyone carrying Michigan’s enhanced license or a valid passport can keep moving through the security post‑deadline. If you rely on a standard driver’s license, either upgrade soon or pack an alternate document to avoid last‑minute surprises at the gate.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: These 5 States Don’t Require a REAL ID to Fly Domestically After May 7
We Publish Breaking News 24/7. Don’t Miss Out! Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
