Government Gives Itself Two More Years to Check IDs
Published Date: 1/14/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting May 7, 2025, federal agencies can roll out new ID card rules in steps instead of all at once, making it easier to keep things secure and smooth. Agencies must share their plans with the public and finish full enforcement by May 5, 2027. This phased approach helps everyone adjust without sudden changes or big costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Phased REAL ID Enforcement Window
Federal agencies must begin REAL ID card-based enforcement on May 7, 2025, but may implement enforcement in phases for up to 2 years. Any phased plan must reach full enforcement no later than May 5, 2027.
Warnings and Progressive Enforcement Allowed
During a phased enforcement period, agencies may use warning notices or progressive measures (for example, a three-strikes system) instead of immediately denying individuals who present noncompliant DL/IDs for official purposes.
Costs, Delayed Benefits, and Administrative Burdens
DHS estimates the rule’s 2-year cost to Federal entities at $1.73 million (undiscounted), with DHS costs of $0.033 million and other Federal agencies $1.70 million; the rule also notes individuals may incur costs to learn about phased plans and to obtain REAL ID-compliant DL/IDs, and that full security benefits are delayed until full enforcement.
Public Notice Requirement for Agency Plans
Agencies that coordinate a phased enforcement plan with DHS must post their plan on their web page, and DHS will publish a list of agencies with coordinated phased plans on the DHS REAL ID web page (https://www.dhs.gov/real-id).
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20792, Raisins Produced From Grapes Grown in California; Order Amending Marketing Order No. 989
California raisin producers just voted to shake things up! The USDA is cutting the Raisin Committee from 47 to 21 members, changing how reps are chosen, and tweaking rules about raisin quality and marketing. These changes kick in on November 9, 2026, aiming to make raisin handling smoother and more modern without extra costs.
2026-20726, Medical Devices; Cardiovascular Devices; Classification of the Infant Pulse Rate and Oxygen Saturation Monitor for Over-the-Counter Use
The FDA is officially classifying infant pulse rate and oxygen saturation monitors for over-the-counter use as Class II devices with special safety rules. This change makes these monitors easier to get, safer to use, and less costly to bring to market. Starting October 9, 2026, parents and caregivers can expect better access to these helpful devices without extra red tape.
2026-20727, Medical Devices; Immunology and Microbiology Devices; Classification of the System for Detection of Nucleic Acid From Non-Viral Microorganism(s) Causing Sexually Transmitted Infections Using Home-Collected Specimens
The FDA is officially classifying home test kits that detect non-viral germs causing sexually transmitted infections as Class II devices, meaning they have special safety rules but fewer hurdles than the strictest category. This change, effective October 9, 2026, helps make these tests safer and easier to get, benefiting patients and innovators alike. If you make or use these home test kits, this update means better access and clear safety standards without extra costs or delays.
2026-20722, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Helicopters
If you own or fly an Airbus Helicopters Deutschland MBB-BK 117 C-1, listen up! The FAA found a problem where a part called the louver box assembly might come loose during flight because it was installed wrong. Starting October 26, 2026, pilots and maintenance crews must regularly check this part and fix any issues to keep flights safe. This might mean some extra work and costs, but safety always comes first!
2026-20725, Medical Devices; Immunology and Microbiology Devices; Classification of the Hematopoietic Cell Enrichment Kit
The FDA is officially putting the hematopoietic cell enrichment kit into Class II, meaning it now has special safety rules but fewer hurdles than the highest-risk devices. This change helps make sure the kit is safe and effective while speeding up patient access to this cool medical tech. The new classification took effect on October 9, 2026, but has been in place since November 6, 2023, so manufacturers and patients can benefit now without extra costs.
2026-20736, Air Plan Approval; Michigan; Clean Data Determination for the Berrien, MI and Muskegon, MI Areas for the 2015 Ozone Standards
Great news for folks in Berrien and Muskegon counties, Michigan! The EPA says these areas have cleaned up their air enough to meet the 2015 ozone standards. Because of this, they don’t have to submit extra air quality plans or controls for now, saving time and effort as long as the air stays clean.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-00423, Airworthiness Directives; Embraer S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Yaborã Indústria Aeronáutica S.A.; Embraer S.A.) Airplanes
If you fly or fix Embraer ERJ 190-400 planes, listen up! The FAA updated safety rules to keep wing ailerons in tip-top shape by clarifying inspection and repair steps. These changes kick in January 29, 2025, so operators should get ready to follow the new checklist to keep flights safe without surprise costs.
Next: 2025-00516, Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjustments
Starting January 14, 2025, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is raising the maximum fines it can charge for breaking its rules to keep up with inflation. This means companies and individuals under the Commission’s watch should expect bigger penalties if they don’t follow the law. These updates happen every year to make sure fines stay fair and effective.