I still hear from travelers at the HNL checkpoint who didn’t know REAL ID was a real thing now. They’re holding a regular state driver’s license, looking at the TSA officer, and asking the same question: “Are you serious?”
Yes. As of May 7, 2025, every adult flying domestically in the United States needs a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative to clear TSA. Hawaii flights count. A trip to Honolulu, Maui, Kona, Hilo, or Lihue starts at a mainland security checkpoint, and that checkpoint runs under federal rules.
Summer is when this catches the most people. Family trips, anniversary trips, weddings. Folks who fly once a year or once every few years often don’t know the rule changed. If you’re heading to Hawaii in June, July, or August and haven’t checked your ID lately, this is the post to read before you pack.
