Real ID finally lands in Minnesota. What you need to know before your next flight.

May 6, 2025 – Published on WCCO News Minnesota

Starting Wednesday, Minnesotans will need a Real ID in order to fly.

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport has extra TSA staff on hand Wednesday to help in the transition.

State officials say only 42% of Minnesotans have updated their driver’s licenses. If you’re of the nearly 60% who haven’t and you’re hopping a flight soon, you can still bring a passport or other forms of ID, but be prepared for extra screening.

There is a Real ID office at the airport in Terminal 1, on the mezzanine of the Green Parking Ramp, but you’ll need an appointment. And unfortunately, even if you come to the airport office, you won’t get the ID right away. It’s just another option to try if your DMV is experiencing long lines like what we’ve seen and reported on these last few weeks. 

If you still need to get one before you take off for your summer vacation, GuidePoint Security’s Brian Ledbetter warns to watch out for phony websites offering Real IDs, especially those sliding into your DMs or inbox.