Mass. RMV once again reminds residents to get their REAL ID

The clock is ticking for Massachusetts residents to get their Real ID-compliant driver's license or identification card or passport if they want to board a plane next year.

Anyone flying in the U.S. or entering a federal building will need a REAL ID or a valid passport starting May 7, 2025, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles said.

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"The countdown is on for REAL ID federal enforcement," said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie. "And the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, and its partner AAA Northeast, have successfully been issuing REAL ID credentials and are prepared for interested residents prior to the May 2025 deadline."

The Department of Homeland Security announced that all U.S. travelers must have a REAL ID to board domestic flights starting May 7, 2025. Here’s what you need to know.

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Massachusetts is currently at a 54% REAL ID adoption, the RMV said, with about 3 million credentials being REAL-ID compliant.

"Customers are eligible to renew up to one year in advance of the expiration date printed on their license or ID, and up to two years after the expiration date," said the RMV.

Before May 7, 2025, residents won't need a federally compliant REAL ID to travel in the U.S. or to enter federal buildings.

For more information about the REAL ID, visit mass.gov.