Sunport, TSA and MVD Urge New Mexican Travelers to Get REAL ID Ahead of May 7 Deadline
“Without the Star, You Won’t Get Far!”
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, officials from the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) as well as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (NM MVD) held a joint media event to remind New Mexicans about the fast-approaching REAL ID deadline on May 7, 2025.
The event, held at the Sunport, emphasized the importance of having a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other form of approved identification, such as a passport, to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
The REAL ID driver’s license and identification card in New Mexico have a small gold star in the upper right corner to indicate that the license meets federal regulations that establish minimum security standards.
“Without the star, you won’t get far,” said Gary Gilliard, Aviation Department Deputy Director. “Come May 7, TSA will no longer accept standard licenses for domestic air travel. We want travelers to be ready.”
New Mexico residents who do not yet have a REAL ID are urged to make an appointment at their local NM MVD office or at a private MVD partner office as soon as possible to avoid travel disruptions. Folks can check if they have a REAL ID by looking for the gold star on their license or ID card. To see a list of documents you will need to be issued a REAL ID by NM MVD, please visit https://realid.mvd.newmexico.gov/.
“If you would like a REAL ID, we recommend that you make your appointment two to three weeks before your expected travel date,” said Htet Wint, NM MVD Director. “Appointments are currently available in many offices’ same day. Visit our website in advance to make sure you have all the documents needed.”
Sunport officials echoed the urgency, noting that the airport is preparing for a busy summer travel season and that passengers without a compliant ID may face delays or be unable to fly.
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About the Albuquerque International Sunport
Owned and operated by the City of Albuquerque’s Aviation Department, The Albuquerque International Sunport is New Mexico’s largest commercial airport, welcoming over 5.4 million passengers each year. Served by eight major carriers, three cargo carriers and one commuter airline, the Sunport offers nonstop service between ABQ and 32 destinations, with worldwide connectivity. The Albuquerque International Sunport is the Gateway of New Mexico.
