Planning a trip within the U.S. in 2025? Before you pack your bags, make sure your documents are in order. In this episode of Theme Parks and Passports, travel advisors and hosts Melissa Sanchez and Heidi Mackey break down everything you need to know about IDs, passports, and what changes are coming with the REAL ID deadline in May 2025. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first family getaway, this episode is your essential checklist to ensure smooth travels.
✅ What’s the deal with REAL ID? 🧳 Passport vs. Passport Card: Which one do you really need? ✈️ Why a valid ID might not be enough to get you on your flight.
Key Takeaways:
REAL ID Deadline is May 7, 2025 – After this date, you’ll need a REAL ID, enhanced license, or passport to board domestic flights in the U.S.
Passport 101 – Passports for kids under 16 are valid for 5 years; 16 and older get 10-year validity. Always check expiration dates before travel and aim for at least 6 months validity post-return.
Passport Card vs. Book – While the passport card is cheaper, it’s limited to land and sea travel to Canada and Mexico. The passport book is the best all-around option for international travel.
Resources:
REAL ID Act Overview - https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
REAL ID Enforcement Deadline - https://www.tsa.gov/real-id Find Your State's REAL ID Info - https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-state-information U.S. Passports: How to Apply or Renew - https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html More on Passport Photos - https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html
Passport Cards vs. Passport Books - https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply/passport-card.html
Connect with Hosts:
This podcast! https://themeparksandpassports.com/
Melissa’s company, Spellbound Vacations, LLC: https://spellboundvacations.com/
Heidi’s company, House of Mackey Travel: https://houseofmackeytravel.com/
Melissa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellbound_vacationsllc/
Heidi on Instagram: http://instagram.com/houseofmackeytravel
Key Episode Timestamps:
[00:00:00] - This is Theme Parks & Passports
[00:00:57] – Introduction to the episode, Domestic Travel Documents 101
[00:01:09] – Overview of the REAL ID Act and what domestic travelers need to know for 2025
[00:01:29] – Explanation of REAL ID vs. enhanced driver’s licenses and which states offer them
[00:02:55] – Reminder of the May 7, 2025 REAL ID enforcement deadline for U.S. air travel
[00:03:00] – Passport expiration timelines for children under 16 and adults over 16
[00:04:12] – How to renew a passport depending on your child’s age
[00:05:08] – Passport fees and the cost differences between new and renewed applications
[00:06:00] – How long it takes to get a passport and what to expect with expedited processing
[00:06:40] – Why passports should be valid at least six months beyond your return date
[00:07:33] – What happens if your passport does not meet a destination country’s requirements
[00:08:59] – What is a passport card and how it differs from a passport book
[00:10:00] – When a passport card might make sense and why most travelers skip it
[00:13:00] – Tips for taking acceptable passport and REAL ID photos at home or the DMV
[00:14:00] – Photo requirements for government-issued IDs and passport applications
[00:15:37] – Recap of acceptable forms of ID for domestic travel after May 2025
[00:16:17] – You don’t have to wait for renewal to apply for a REAL ID or enhanced license
[00:16:43] – Bonus segment: Would You Rather use a REAL ID or a passport for domestic flights?
[00:17:06] – Host preferences and experiences using REAL IDs and passports for U.S. travel
[00:18:11] – Why some parents choose to carry a child’s passport instead of a birth certificate
[00:18:43] – Final thoughts on staying travel-ready and a preview of Part 2 on international travel documents
Music is Homesick by Luke Bergs & Waesto and Ukelele Trip Version 60s