( Español )
San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works and the U.S. Virgin Islands Bureau of Motor Vehicles, is reminding travelers to ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant identification as the federal deadline of May 7, 2025, approaches.
Starting May 7, TSA will not accept state-issued IDs that do not comply with REAL ID at security checkpoints. All airline passengers over 18 years old, including TSA PreCheck® members, must present a REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints. Non-citizens illegally present in the U.S. who are voluntarily self-deporting on international flights will not be denied boarding under this requirement.
“With the peak travel season in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, TSA’s focus is on enforcing REAL ID effectively and efficiently,” said Mariely Loperena Moure, TSA Federal Security Director for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. “I urge you to get your REAL ID! If you cannot obtain a REAL ID-compliant identification by May 7, you will need to use your passport or another TSA-accepted ID, or you may face delays and the possibility of additional screening. We are committed to travelers, raising the standard of security nationwide, and ensuring their protection.”
Residents are encouraged to upgrade their driver’s license to a REAL ID-compliant one if their current license does not have the star. Remember, a REAL ID driver’s license has a star in the upper right corner. A standard license without the star will not be accepted for domestic flights, and travelers may face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of being denied entry to the airport’s secure area.
Visit the Puerto Rico Department of Transportation and Public Works website or the U.S. Virgin Islands Bureau of Motor Vehicles website to learn about the documents required to obtain a REAL ID.