Press Room
REAL ID deadline arrives May 7: Ontario International Airport urges travelers to be ready and arrive early
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(Ontario, California – May 5, 2025) – Ontario International Airport’s (ONT) advises travelers to bring proper identification and arrive early beginning Wednesday, May 7, as the new REAL ID requirements take effect nationwide.
Starting that day, all passengers 18 years of age or older will be required by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to carry a REAL ID-compliant state-issued identification or driver’s license – or another TSA-acceptable form of identification, such as a passport – in order to board a U.S. commercial flight. Travelers who do not have compliant identification may experience delays, additional screening, or may not be permitted through the security checkpoint.
“As the REAL ID deadline arrives, we want to ensure that our passengers are fully prepared and experience no disruptions in their travel plans,” said Atif Elkadi, chief executive officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority. “ONT remains committed to providing a smooth, stress-free travel experience, and we encourage all travelers to double-check their identification, arrive early, and plan ahead. This is an important milestone in aviation security, and we’re here to help our community navigate the transition.”
Travelers should also note that Ontario’s ONT+ digital visitor pass program, which allows non-ticketed guests access to post-security areas, will be temporarily suspended for a few days to support a smooth transition. ONT+ visitors are subject to the same ID requirements as ticketed passengers.
In California, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license features a golden bear with a star in the top right corner. Travelers who are unsure whether their license is REAL ID-compliant, or who wish to apply, should consult the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
Acceptable alternate forms of ID include a U.S. passport or passport card, DHS Trusted Traveler cards (e.g., Global Entry), active duty or retired military IDs (including those issued to dependents), tribal-issued IDs, and Transportation Worker Identification Credentials. A complete list is available on the TSA’s website.
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About Ontario International Airport
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is California's most popular mid-sized airport, according to J.D. Power's most recent North America Airport Satisfaction Study. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to two dozen major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)
The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport's four-county catchment area. OIAA leaders include Ontario Mayor pro Tem Alan D. Wapner (President), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Vice President), Ontario City Council Member Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Treasurer) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner).
REAL ID Notice
Starting May 7th, U.S. travelers 18 and older must be compliant with TSA’s Real ID law to board domestic flights. Those who are not Real ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (i.e. Passport) may expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint. ONT recommends passengers arrive earlier than usual to ensure smooth travels. For more information, visit here.