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 (BMV). The notice came Wednesday morning, just as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that while standard IDs will no longer be accepted at airport security, travelers without a REAL ID won’t be barred from flying — but should expect additional screening.
Locally, BMV Director Barbara Jackson-McIntosh said the agency has been working “tirelessly” to meet the demand for REAL ID upgrades and ensure that eligible residents are able to comply with the federal mandate. Those who previously received a non-REAL ID version of their driver’s license or ID will be re-issued a compliant card 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, sets nationwide standards for identification and was implemented following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to enhance airport and federal facility security. While the law has been on the books for nearly two decades, enforcement deadlines have been extended multiple times — with today’s date now marking the final shift.
According to national news reports, Noem said alternative documents such as a valid passport or tribal ID are still acceptable forms of identification. However, travelers using non-compliant IDs – including REAL ID’s issued in the territory prior to 2023 – should be prepared for additional TSA procedures.
The BMV reminds residents that the REAL ID application process can take up to 30 days, and recommends renewing driver’s licenses up to three months before their expiration to avoid delays in travel. Appointments and further information are available online at bmv.vi.gov or by calling the offices on St. Croix, St. Thomas, or St. John.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and ensure their documentation is up-to-date before booking flights.
