What Happens If You Don’t Get a Michigan REAL ID By the Deadline?

The deadline to get your Michigan REAL ID is less than a month away. Do you have yours? If not, you could end up in a tricky situation.

The deadline to get your new and improved form of identification in Michigan is May 7, 2025. You should know this already because it’s been talked about for what feels like forever, but just in case it slipped your mind, here’s what you need to know.

Let's first talk about the REAL ID, including what it is and why you have to have it.

What is a Michigan REAL ID?

A Michigan REAL ID is basically a beefed-up version of your standard driver’s license or state ID. It looks pretty much the same, but it comes with a little gold star in the corner.

That little star might not look like much, but it basically means your ID is cleared for takeoff (get it?). It shows you’ve jumped through the federal hoops and your ID meets tougher security standards.

Without it, starting May 7, 2025, you won’t be able to board domestic flights or get into certain federal buildings. Yes, you will need it if you plan to travel, even in the U.S., unless you’ve got a passport or another approved form of ID handy.

What Happens If You Don't Get Your Michigan REAL ID By the Deadline?

If you don’t get your REAL ID by the deadline, don’t freak out. Well, unless you have travel plans and don’t have a passport. If that’s the case, you might want to freak out a little.

Your life will go on like normal. Just keep in mind, TSA agents aren’t going to let you on a domestic flight with just a regular old driver’s license.

How to Get a Michigan REAL ID

Getting a REAL ID is a piece of cake, I just got mine a few weeks ago.

All you have to do is make an appointment with the Secretary of State’s office, and you’ll be good to go. Just keep in mind, there will be some fees, especially if you’re getting it outside your normal renewal cycle.