REAL ID Deadline Looms: Essential Requirements for Air Travel Starting May 7

Topline

Starting from May 7, individuals traveling within the U.S. must possess either a REAL ID or one of roughly twelve alternate approved IDs to clear Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints.

Key Facts

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) mandates that travelers must show a REAL ID-compliant type of identification when going through airport security checkpoints.

People who do not have a REAL ID or another accepted form of identification may undergo extra security checks and risk being late for their flights.

In addition to a REAL ID driver’s license, there are approximately a dozen other acceptable forms of identification, such as passports and military IDs.

What Changes Are Expected at Airport Security?

Once REAL ID enforcement starts, the primary change will be that a regular state-issued driver’s license won’t allow travelers to pass through airport security checkpoints anymore. Starting from May 7th, a driver’s license needs to be “enhanced,” also known as a REAL ID.

What Are The Signs That My ID Is Genuine?

Overall, a REAL ID resembles a regular driver’s license.
it has a star
In the top right corner, though, each state’s REAL ID appears somewhat distinct. For instance, in California, the star is situated within the outline of a bear. Conversely, in both Michigan and Maine, the star is found inside the shape of their respective states.
online quiz
On the TSA website, visitors can find information to assist them in figuring out if their driver’s license qualifies as a standard ID or a REAL ID.

Do You Absolutely Require a REAL ID by May 7?

Only if you have a scheduled flight departing from a U.S. airport. Those without imminent travel plans can get a REAL ID whenever they choose, provided it’s done before their upcoming trip.

Where Can You Obtain a Genuine ID Card?

Americans can obtain a REAL ID through their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While requirements differ slightly by state, all applicants must provide documentation showing their full legal name and date of birth, two proofs of address and proof of lawful status in the U.S. In addition, applicants must bring a Social Security card or SSA-1099 form or a document that shows both their name and Social Security number, such as a pay stub or W-2 form, according to the
Homeland Security Department’s webpage
Certain state motor vehicle departments are experiencing delays with processing REAL ID applications.

What Substitutes Will The Tsa Allow At Airport Security Checkpoints?

In addition to a REAL ID driver’s license, over a dozen alternative acceptable IDs exist. These encompass a passport; passport card; DHS-trusted traveler cards such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST; DoD-issued military ID along with dependent identifications; green card or U.S. permanent residence card; border crossing card; Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe photographic ID like an Enhanced Tribal Card; HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Card for federal workers and contractors; passports from foreign governments; Canadian provincial driving licenses or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card; Transportation Worker Identification Credential; USCIS Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766); U.S. Merchant Mariner Documentation; and Veterans Health Insurance Card (VHIC).

What Can Travelers Anticipate at the Airport?

Travelers with a REAL ID should arrive at the airport two hours before departure, as normal. Those without a compliant ID should add an additional hour and expect to be steered to a separate line for additional screening. Travelers without a REAL ID should be prepared that they may miss their flight, a
senior TSA official told
.

Could It Be Possible That the TSA Would Allow You to Board a Plane Without a Genuine ID Card?

TSA aims to ensure that travelers with REAL IDs face minimal disruption or delay. Individuals arriving at the TSA checkpoint without a REAL ID are venturing into uncertain territory since there’s no assurance they’ll be granted access. However, should you possess a valid ticket and boarding pass yet lack a REAL ID, TSA agents will explore alternate methods to assist you in verifying your identification. “Our experience includes handling situations where individuals misplace their wallets and IDs,” explained a TSA representative, “we employ various procedures to confirm that the individual before us matches the identity claimed.”

Key Background

After the September 11 terrorist assaults on the United States,
REAL ID Act from 2005
Establish more stringent baseline security requirements for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards required for accessing federal facilities and air travel within the country. Although the implementation timeline has been pushed back multiple times from its initial 2008 target, the enforcement date of May 7 is now set in stone. “This process has taken two decades, but we’re moving forward with it,” stated the TSA representative.