Is May 7 your last day to get a REAL ID? What happens if you don't get one? After years of delays, the Department of Homeland Security will enforce the May 7 deadline for REAL ID this week. The REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the federal government enhance security standards for identification.Here's what will change after the deadline passes.What is a REAL ID? Do I really need one?The REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.In summary, after May 7, you'll need a REAL ID if you want to access certain federal facilities, board a federally-regulated commercial aircraft or enter a nuclear power plant. Is May 7 my last day to get a REAL ID?No. Although May 7 is the first day REAL ID requirements will be enforced, you still have time to obtain one if you plan to fly domestically this summer or visit a federal facility later this year. What alternatives are there? A passport is the primary accepted alternative if you don't have a REAL ID.What happens if I don't have a REAL ID or passport and show up at the airport after May 7? Can I still fly?Short answer: maybe. If you don't have a REAL ID or a passport and present a standard state-issued identification (like a driver's license without REAL ID designation), plan ahead for additional delays.According to the Transportation Security Administration, passengers without REAL ID can expect additional screening and the possibility of not getting through the security checkpoint if their identity can't be verified. What documentation do I need to get a REAL ID? It depends on what state you live in.At a minimum, you'll need documents to show your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address and lawful status. Before visiting your state's driver's license agency, check their website for a full list of documentation requirements for REAL IDs. Each state also requires different fees for first-time REAL IDs and renewals.How can I tell if I already have a REAL ID?REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses usually have special markings to set them apart from the standard state ID.Most states use a star at the top of the card for REAL IDs. A few states have different ways to display the star. For example, California has a golden bear on the front of the license with a star on the bear.