REAL ID Readiness: What to Know Before May 7, 2025
Heads up, recruiting professionals—this isn’t just a travel update. It’s a potential make-or-break moment for your orientation pipeline.
Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will require every traveler to show a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to get through airport security. That includes the drivers you’re flying to orientation.
So, what counts as compliant?
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID (look for a black or gold star in the top right corner)
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- TWIC cards
Here’s the catch:
Not all CDLs are REAL ID-compliant. If your driver’s license doesn’t have that star, they may be denied boarding. And with only about 50% of Americans currently holding a REAL ID, the chances are high that some of your candidates won’t be prepared.
Why this matters even beyond air travel:
In addition to airport security, access to certain federal facilities, military bases, and nuclear power plants will also require a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. This could impact certain loads or delivery sites your drivers need to access.
Why this matters to your team:
Without the right ID, drivers can’t fly. That means:
- Missed flights and orientation slots
- Last-minute rebooking fees
- Wasted advertising dollars
- Frustrated drivers and recruiting teams
What you can do today:
✅ Start adding REAL ID checks to your phone screening process.
✅ Educate your recruiters to confirm IDs before booking travel.
✅ Remind drivers early and often—it takes time to get the proper ID, and DMV lines will only get longer as the deadline approaches.
This small step can save your team thousands of dollars and keep your orientation classes full. Don’t wait to make this a priority. Add REAL ID to your recruiting checklist now—and keep your funnel moving forward.
