Starting Wednesday, U.S. Virgin Islands residents will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic commercial flights, according to a reminder issued by the V.I. Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the Transportation Security Administration.
All airline passengers 18 years and older — including TSA PreCheck® members — must present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID, such as a valid passport, to pass through TSA security checkpoints. IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted for domestic travel.
Island residents can check whether their license is compliant by looking for a star in the upper right corner. Standard licenses issued without this symbol will not be accepted and may result in delays, additional screening, or even denial of entry into secure airport areas.
TSA’s Federal Security Director for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Mariely Loperena Moure, urged residents to act quickly.
“As we approach a busy travel season in the U.S. Virgin Islands, TSA’s focus is to enforce REAL ID effectively and efficiently,” she said. “If you are unable to get a REAL ID-compliant identification by May 7, you must use your passport or another TSA-acceptable ID or face delays with the possibility of additional screening.”
Locally, BMV Director Barbara Jackson-McIntosh said the agency has been working “tirelessly” to meet the demand for REAL ID upgrades. Those who previously received a non-compliant version of their license or ID will be reissued a REAL ID and notified when it’s ready for pickup.
“We apologize for any inconvenience that the delay in issuing REAL IDs has caused,” said McIntosh. “If you currently have a valid REAL ID, there is no need to update the card. This only affects persons whose ID or driver’s license has expired and needs to be renewed.”
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005 following recommendations by the 9/11 Commission, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued IDs nationwide. After years of postponed enforcement, Wednesday now marks the final deadline.
According to Homeland Security officials, alternative identification, such as tribal IDs or valid passports, will remain acceptable at TSA checkpoints. However, travelers presenting outdated or non-compliant licenses — including some REAL IDs issued in the territory prior to 2023 — should expect additional screening.
The BMV reminds residents that the REAL ID application process may take up to 30 days. Drivers are encouraged to renew their licenses up to three months in advance of expiration to avoid processing delays. Required documentation and appointment information are available at bmv.vi.gov or by contacting the BMV offices on St. Croix, St. Thomas, or St. John.
Residents planning to travel are encouraged to act now and ensure their documents are up to date.
