Air transportation in the U.S. is about to get a bit more complicated. Wednesday, May 7 is the first day a Real ID compliant license — or another acceptable document — is needed to board a commercial aircraft for domestic travel in the U.S.
It sounds like something of a nightmare at the security checkpoints so we expect a fair amount of confusion as well as disappointment.
What is Real ID?
The law was scheduled to be enforced in 2008 but has been delayed many times.
It will finally go in to effect May 7, 2025.
A Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal security standards. Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005 after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, seeking to beef up security surrounding IDs used at airports. Compliant IDs such as driver’s licenses are typically marked with a star in the upper right corner, though the specific design may vary by state. States that are already compliant include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, DC, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, S. Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
But don’t take our word for it….pull out your driver’s license and look.
Obviously if you have a U.S. passport you will be compliant..
According to T.S.A., 81% of travelers at T.S.A. checkpoints already present an acceptable identification including a state-issued Real ID, according to TSA’s statement. For those who don’t…or aren’t sure, we advise you to check your documentation ahead of time. Note: TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the United States. The companion will need acceptable identification,
If you do not have a current passport or Real ID driver’s license, then in order to obtain a Real ID, Department of Homeland Security says at a minimum you must provide documentation that shows your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address of principal address and lawful status.
Find your states’ requirements and how to get a Real ID on this DHS page.
Alternatives to Real ID:
A valid U.S. Passport or enhanced license are Real ID alternatives. We recommend that most people have a passport regardless, since you never know when an opportunity to travel overseas will come up, and you will have to have a passport to travel overseas. And…..that is one less thing you need to do to prepare for your trip……just keep an eye on the expiration date!
In addition to real ID driver’s licenses, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are also considered acceptable alternatives.
U.S. passport or passport card and DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), Permanent resident card
Are you confused yet? Well so were we. Hopefully the information provided will help,
No Real ID or passport? Expect delays
What we’re watching: TSA says if you don’t have a Real ID or acceptable alternative it would be helpful to bring along “anything that can help us confirm your , such as your name and current address.”
“You may need to undergo identity verification and subject to additional screening,” TSA said on a Reddit “Ask Me Anything” session.
TSA recommends these passengers allow themselves an extra hour to pass through airport security.
“Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (e.g., passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint,” TSA said.
How will airports handle Real ID transition?
All airports are different and have different layouts, so this is a hard question to answer. Our best advice is always get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure.
Be on the lookout for signage or TSA officers there helping and guiding passengers to the appropriate areas.
How it works: Go to your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a Real ID.
In some states, you can order a Real ID and others you’ll need to make an appointment with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
The deadline’s approach is causing panic in some states with long lines and high demand for appointments.
The scramble to get appointments has also created a “perfect storm for cybercriminals to take advantage,” Ian Bednowitz, LifeLock general manager, told Axios, noting “scammers are capitalizing on the confusion and urgency.”
Can a temporary Real ID be used to fly? “Temporary paper IDs aren’t accepted at our security checkpoints,” the TSA says, “so you should plan to bring another acceptable form of ID (such as a Passport or military ID) with you to the airport.”
The deadline isn’t pressing for everyone. You only need a Real ID by May 7 if you’re over 18, flying domestically soon and don’t have a passport, or if you have to enter a military base or a secure federal building. However, we recommend your getting one just to be prepared.
Here’s a treat: Krispy Kreme has announced that it is marking the Real ID deadline of May 7 with a free glazed doughnut giveaway, in shop or via drive-thru…no ID or purchase required. Limit one per customer.