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The REAL ID requirement for domestic air travel in the U.S. officially began on May 7, 2025.

Travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license to fly domestically.

The article provides a list of recommended travel essentials.

In true procrastinator fashion , I waited until the last possible moment to schedule my REAL ID appointment—and paid for it, with longer than usual DMV wait times .

Despite my months (read: years) of stalling, I did get my REAL ID—and now find myself with the sudden urge to travel. After all, what's the point of waiting hours in line for a travel license if you're not ever going to use it? While I haven't yet sorted out exactly I'll be traveling this fall , I already know what flight essentials I'll be packing for my next excursio

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