Planning a conference in the U.S. this year? Whether you’re organizing a tech summit in Chicago or a leadership forum in D.C., a crucial update could impact your attendees: the REAL ID requirement. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will enforce the long-delayed REAL ID requirement for domestic air travel in the United States.
Let’s break down what this means for your event and how to ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved.
What Is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, was a response to the security vulnerabilities exposed by the 9/11 attacks. Its primary goal is to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, making them more difficult to forge.
A REAL ID-compliant license features a star in the top-right corner and requires applicants to provide documentation proving their identity, Social Security number, and residency.
Why Is It Being Implemented Now?
Although the REAL ID Act was passed in 2005, its enforcement has faced multiple delays due to logistical challenges, state-level opposition, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The current enforcement date is set for May 7, 2025.
What Does This Mean for Conference Attendees?
Suppose your conference attendees are flying domestically within the U.S.. In that case, they must present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, to board their flights.
It’s important to note that travelers without a REAL ID will still be allowed to fly but may undergo additional screening at TSA checkpoints.
Implications for International Travelers
International attendees flying into the U.S. will not be affected by the REAL ID requirement for international flights. However, suppose they plan to travel domestically within the U.S. during their stay. In that case, they must carry their passports or other acceptable forms of identification, as their foreign driver’s licenses will not suffice.
Recommendations for Conference Organizers
To ensure a seamless experience for your attendees:
- Communicate Early: Inform attendees about the REAL ID requirement well in advance, especially if your event is scheduled after May 7, 2025.
- Provide Resources: Share links to official resources where attendees can check if their ID is compliant and learn how to obtain a REAL ID if necessary.
- Inform about Alternatives: If attendees do not have a REAL ID, encourage them to bring passports or other acceptable forms of identification.
- Plan for Delays: Advise attendees to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to accommodate potential delays due to additional screening.
Communicate with your Attendees
To help you communicate important travel updates with your attendees, we’ve created a ready-to-use REAL ID email template. This message is designed for you to send directly to your registered participants ahead of your event and outlines what they need to know about the upcoming REAL ID enforcement deadline. It covers what REAL ID is, why it matters, and how both domestic and international travelers can be prepared.
You can access the email template here. (There are no hidden gotchas; just click the link, and the Word doc will download.)
Final Thoughts
Implementing the REAL ID requirement significantly shifts domestic air travel protocols in the U.S. As a conference organizer, staying informed and proactively communicating these changes to your attendees will help ensure a successful and hassle-free event.
For more detailed information, visit the Department of Homeland Security’s official REAL ID page: