The federal REAL ID full enforcement deadline is less than eight months away. Written By: Forum News Service | 6:00 pm, Feb. 27, 2021 × A Minnesota Real ID has a gold star in the upper right-hand corner. (Contributed photo) For those itching to travel after a year of staying close to home, an important deadline is approaching: the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline. And just like planning the perfect trip, getting a REAL ID will take some time. Beginning Oct. 1, Minnesotans will not be able to use their standard driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities. Instead, they will need a passport or passport card, a REAL ID or an enhanced driver's license or ID.