Real ID Guidance

The below message was sent to faculty, staff, and students on May 2, 2025 and forwarded to current parents on May 5, 2025. 

Dear Campus Community, 

Starting Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a REAL ID, or another Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approved ID, will be required to board domestic flights in the United States. A standard U.S. driver’s license or state ID will no longer be sufficient. Airline passengers who do not yet have a REAL ID (or another TSA-approved ID) can expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of not being allowed into the security checkpoint. If you are not eligible for a REAL ID, you may travel within the United States using a non-U.S. passport.    

For students traveling home after May 7: 
The residence halls close to non-seniors on Sunday, May 18, at noon. Because this is after the REAL ID implementation deadline, you should plan on using a REAL ID when you depart campus, and should take steps now to ensure you have a travel plan when the semester ends. 

If you have a passport but it is not with you on campus, you should take steps now to ensure that your passport is sent to you before your residence hall move-out. If you have a financial barrier to having it mailed to you, you may be eligible for financial assistance to help with mailing costs through the Student Assistance Fund. 

We realize this new travel requirement may be the source of some stress or concern. For students, please contact Sarah Donals at sdonals@brynmawr.edu if you have additional questions.

What is a REAL ID?  
A REAL ID looks like a standard driver's license or state identification card but generally includes a gold or black star in the top right corner. Their appearance varies by state or territory. 

If you do not have a REAL ID 
Most states require that you apply for a Real ID at a DMV/MDV in person in your state of permanent residence. Check the regulations for your state on the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID web page. 

If you are not able to obtain a REAL ID before you plan to fly, a U.S. passport or passport card are also accepted forms of ID. TSA will accept these alternative forms of identification.  

Obtaining a Passport Card 
Passport cards are cheaper than traditional passports, and if you are a U.S. citizen, obtaining one may be the fastest alternative to obtaining a REAL ID. However, they are not valid for international air travel.

The State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs has information on how to get a passport card. You can also apply for an expedited passport card, which typically takes between 2-3 weeks.  

To apply, you will need to complete — but not sign — and print Form DS-11 and bring it in person to an acceptance facility, along with a $65 passport card fee (payable only by check or money order; cash, credit, or debit cards are not accepted), a separate $60 expediting fee, and an approved photo (some facilities provide photo services for an additional fee). It is best to make an appointment and review the facility’s instructions before you arrive.  

Locations near Bryn Mawr’s campus where you can apply for a passport card include: 

If you are not able to obtain a REAL ID or an accepted alternative for airline travel by the May 7th deadline, Amtrak, Greyhound, and Megabus all accept standard photo IDs. 
 

Thank you, 

Marty Mastascusa 
Director, Human Resources 

Tim Harte
Provost 

Katie Krimmel 
Co-Acting Dean of the Undergraduate College 

Tomiko Jenkins 
Co-Acting Dean of the Undergraduate College