Security and identity management experts are urging Congress to direct the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to take a lead role in establishing digital identity management standards ahead of the impending May 7, 2025 deadline for REAL ID Act compliance by domestic air travelers. The REAL ID Act mandates the use of compliant driver’s licenses or ID cards for all domestic air travelers and visitors to certain federal facilities. While all states now offer REAL ID-compliant licenses, only 52% of U.S. citizens possess identification compliant with the legislation. Experts argue that NIST, with its capabilities, should be tasked to promote and facilitate nationwide compliance with enhanced security measures for digital identity management.
The May 7, 2025, deadline for REAL ID Act compliance is approaching, and experts warn of potential disruptions at airports due to low awareness and adoption of REAL ID-compliant identification. Currently, only four states require REAL ID compliance, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and adoption. Security experts suggest that rather than waiting for international bodies like the International Standards Organization to set standards, Congress should empower NIST to lead efforts in developing digital identity management standards to facilitate compliance and enhance security.
Jeremy Grant, coordinator for The Better Identity Coalition, emphasizes NIST’s role and capabilities in spearheading pilot projects related to digital identity, including mobile driver’s licenses. Grant recommends a focused, timeboxed effort led by NIST, with the support of Congress or the White House, to create the necessary standards and guidance for the accelerated deployment of secure and privacy-preserving mobile driver’s license apps. This proactive approach aims to ensure that Americans can use digital IDs securely and protect their identities online while meeting the REAL ID Act requirements.
