Military IDs are going NextGen
Starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will begin enforcing the Real ID Act, which tightens the standards for government-issued identification like driver’s licenses and state IDs. This change will impact access to certain federal facilities, including military bases, as well as boarding domestic commercial flights.
But if you're a military retiree, dependent, or surviving spouse, here's the good news: You will not be affected—yet.
If you already have a military- or DoD-issued ID card (like DD Form 2, DD Form 1173, DD Form 1173-1, or DD Form 2765), you’ll still be allowed access to military installations even after Real ID enforcement begins. The biggest impact will be for non-DoD personnel who don’t already have base access credentials.
However, change is coming.
The NextGen ID Requirement
Eventually, older “legacy” ID cards—even those with indefinite expiration dates—will no longer be accepted for base access. You will need a NextGen ID card, which meets updated security and formatting requirements.
There is no formal deadline yet for when old-style cards will become invalid, but the Department of Defense is expected to announce one. Right now, January 1, 2026 is being floated informally as a likely transition point.
Key Points:
May 7, 2025 – Real ID enforcement begins for airports and federal buildings
No immediate change for military retirees, dependents, or surviving spouses with existing DoD-issued ID cards
Eventually, you will need to upgrade to a NextGen ID card, even if your current one says INDEF
The DoD hasn’t released an official deadline, but January 1, 2026 is being discussed as a possible cutoff
Act now to avoid last-minute issues—appointments for card renewals can fill up quickly
How to Get a NextGen ID
You can update your credentials by making an appointment through the RAPIDS ID Card Office. It’s free and available to anyone eligible for military ID benefits. Visit https://idco.dmdc.osd.mil/idco to find a site near you and schedule a time.
Bottom line: If you or a family member has one of the old pink, blue, or tan ID cards, it’s time to plan ahead. You don’t have to panic—but you do need to act before the DoD formally announces a cutoff. Waiting until the last minute could mean long lines, limited appointments, and unnecessary stress.
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