Travel Plans? Let’s Make Sure You’re Cleared for Takeoff!
What You Need to Know About REAL ID, ETA & Travel Rules in 2025
You might already have a trip on the books—or maybe you’re just starting to plan. Either way, now’s the time to ensure your travel documents are in order. We’re here to help you navigate what’s new.
REAl ID
As of May 7, 2025, all adult U.S. citizens must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license—or another acceptable form of ID, such as a valid U.S. passport—to board domestic commercial flights. (Children under 18 are exempt when traveling with a companion who has REAL ID.)
REAL ID is not a substitute for your passport and is only required for air travel within the U.S.
To avoid last-minute disruptions, we recommend checking your documents now. DMV offices across the country are experiencing high demand, so it’s wise to plan ahead.
Here’s what to look for and prepare:
Check for a star on your current license—gold or black indicates REAL ID compliance.
No star? Schedule an appointment with your local DMV.
You’ll need:
• Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
• Social Security number
• Two documents verifying state residency
Requirements may vary slightly by State, so visit www.dhs.gov/real-id for the most accurate information.
PASSPORT REMINDER
Headed overseas? Now is the time to double-check your passport. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your return date—and some airlines may even deny boarding if it doesn’t meet that standard.
It’s also important to check the number of blank pages in your passport. Most destinations require at least one to two blank pages for entry stamps, but others may require up to four. If your passport doesn’t meet these requirements, you could be turned away at check-in or denied entry upon arrival.
If you're unsure, we're happy to take a look and help confirm everything is in order before you go.
ETa & ETIAS
Headed to the U.K.? A new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is now required for many travelers. This requirement began in January 2025. Once approved, the ETA is valid for two years.
-> PRO TIP: Even if you're only transiting through the U.K., it’s worth applying for an ETA in case of flight delays or cancellations. Without it, you won’t be allowed to leave the airport. The application is simple, costs just £16, and offers peace of mind. Apply at GOV.UK ETA Link for the ETA app QR code for quicker processing.
Traveling to Europe? The broader European Union has delayed the rollout of its electronic visa entry system, but it’s coming soon. Starting in late 2025 or early 2026, Americans and Canadians will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to visit Schengen Area countries. Not sure which destinations this includes? We’re happy to help you navigate it.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Want to stay informed while you travel? Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)—a free U.S. State Department service that sends security updates and emergency alerts from the nearest U.S. embassy based on your travel plans.
It’s also a vital link in case of emergencies. For example, recent travelers to Spain and Portugal received real-time notifications about widespread power outages via STEP.
Enroll online at https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step or use the STEP app for easy access.
TRAVELING WITH MINORS
Bringing your kids—or their friends—on an international adventure? Be sure to pack more than just passports.
When a child is traveling without both legal parents or guardians, many countries require additional documentation. This often includes a notarized consent letter from the non-traveling parent or legal guardian, and in some cases, custody papers or other legal documents.
Even if it's not strictly required by the destination, airlines and border agents may still request it, and lacking the right paperwork could cause delays—or even denied boarding. These extra steps may feel like a hassle, but they’re really just in place to keep our kiddos safe and sound while crossing borders.
We can help guide you through what’s needed based on your itinerary, so your family trip goes smoothly from start to finish.
Forms, fees, and entry requirements are constantly changing—let’s make sure your takeoff is smooth!
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