If you’re an F or J visa holder studying or working in the U.S., you may have heard about Real IDs. Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to fly within the United States. Here’s what you need to know as an international student to be prepared.
What is REAL ID?
Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 to enhance security standards for state-issued IDs. A REAL ID-compliant license or ID will have a star at the top, indicating it meets federal requirements.
Can I get a REAL ID-compliant Driver’s License or ID?
In Washington State, only U.S. citizens are eligible to obtain a REAL ID-compliant Enhanced Driver License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EID). This means that international students on F or J visas are not eligible for these enhanced IDs.
Standard Washington State driver’s licenses and ID cards are available to residents regardless of immigration status. However, these standard IDs are marked with “Federal Limits Apply,” indicating they are not REAL ID-compliant.
However, if you are an alum working on Post-completion OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training and you reside outside of Washington, you should review that state’s policies. You may be eligible for a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card.
If I’m not eligible for a REAL ID, what should I use to travel?
If you’re not able to get a REAL ID through your state, you can use either a valid passport or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by DHS for benefits such as OPT and STEM OPT. Because of this change, it is even more important to keep your passport valid at all times.
Read more about REAL IDs to help you prepare for this change on May 7th, 2025.