Federal Limits Apply Meaning on State-Issued IDs Explained
Clarifies how "Federal Limits Apply" on IDs reflects compliance with federal standards and impacts their use for official identification purposes.
If you have recently renewed your driver’s license or state ID, you might have noticed the phrase “Federal Limits Apply.” This notation reflects federal standards tied to national security and identity verification policies established after the Sept. 11 attacks. Understanding its meaning is important for using state-issued IDs, particularly when interacting with federal agencies.
Where This Language Appears on Identification
The phrase “Federal Limits Apply” is typically printed on the face of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet the full set of federal security standards. While placement varies by state, it is often found near the top of the card, sometimes in the upper right-hand corner. Some states use similar wording like “Not for REAL ID Purposes.”
This marking distinguishes standard licenses and IDs from those fully compliant with federal requirements. Its presence indicates the card has limitations for federal use, though it remains valid for state-level purposes like driving or verifying identity within the issuing state.
Federal Legislative Framework
The “Federal Limits Apply” marking originates from the REAL ID Act of 2005.1Department of Homeland Security. REAL ID Act of 2005 Text Responding to recommendations from the 9/11 Commission regarding vulnerabilities in identification systems, Congress passed this law to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.2Social Security Administration. President Signs Public Law 109-13 (REAL ID Act) The goal was to create a more consistent and secure process for issuing identification nationwide.
The Department of Homeland Security oversees the Act, which mandates that states verify an applicant’s identity, date of birth, Social Security number, lawful status in the U.S., and primary residence address through specific documentation. The law also requires security features on the physical card to prevent tampering and counterfeiting, along with electronic sharing of certain database information between states to combat fraud.
When a state issues a license or ID that does not meet all these federal standards, the law requires it to be clearly marked.3Department of Homeland Security. REAL ID FAQs The “Federal Limits Apply” notation serves this purpose, signifying the card does not meet the security thresholds established by the REAL ID Act for certain federal uses.
State-Level Compliance Measures
States responded to the REAL ID Act largely by offering residents two types of identification: a REAL ID-compliant card, often marked with a star, and a standard card marked “Federal Limits Apply.” This dual system allows states to issue valid identification for general use while providing a federally accepted option for those who need it.
Obtaining a REAL ID-compliant card usually requires applicants to present more extensive documentation in person at the motor vehicle agency. This typically includes proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), lawful status, Social Security number, and state residency (such as utility bills or lease agreements).
Applying for a standard license or ID, which receives the “Federal Limits Apply” marking, may involve different documentation requirements. While proof of identity and residency are still needed, the specific documents accepted might differ from the stricter REAL ID standards. The marking indicates the cardholder either chose the standard option or did not provide the documentation necessary for REAL ID compliance.
Agency Enforcement and Verification
Federal agencies, primarily the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at airport security checkpoints, enforce the REAL ID Act. The law prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant state-issued IDs for “official purposes,” which include boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft and accessing certain federal facilities like military bases.
When identification is presented for these purposes, federal personnel check for REAL ID compliance. A compliant ID is accepted. However, an ID marked “Federal Limits Apply” signifies it does not meet the federal standards.
Starting May 7, 2025, the current enforcement deadline set by the Department of Homeland Security, individuals 18 and older presenting a non-compliant ID will not be allowed through TSA checkpoints or potentially into secure federal facilities requiring ID.4Transportation Security Administration. TSA Reminds Public of REAL ID Enforcement Deadline May 7, 2025 Travelers will need an alternative, acceptable form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, passport card, or DHS trusted traveler card.5Transportation Security Administration. Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint The “Federal Limits Apply” marking clearly signals to federal agents that the card is insufficient for these specific federally regulated purposes.
Distinction From Federally Approved Credentials
Not all identification cards carry the same weight with the federal government. A key difference exists between standard state IDs marked “Federal Limits Apply” and REAL ID-compliant cards. Compliant cards signify the issuing state met the heightened security and verification standards of the REAL ID Act.
A card marked “Federal Limits Apply” explicitly indicates it does not meet these federal benchmarks. While valid for state-level activities like driving or age verification, it lacks federal acceptance for the specific “official purposes” defined by the REAL ID Act, stemming from the documentation provided during application.
REAL ID-compliant state licenses are just one type of federally accepted identification. Other documents issued directly by the federal government, such as U.S. passports, passport cards, military IDs, Permanent Resident Cards, and DHS trusted traveler cards (like Global Entry), also meet federal standards. The “Federal Limits Apply” marking specifically differentiates a standard state ID from its REAL ID-compliant counterpart and other federally recognized credentials, highlighting its limitations in federally regulated contexts.
