The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID is fast approaching, yet many people remain unclear about its contents and who actually requires one.
Following many years of delays and postponements, beginning on Wednesday, air travel will resume.
travelers
Anyone over the age of 18 will require a REAL-ID compliant ID for boarding domestic flights.
flights.
With no further delays apparent, every American must obtain a REAL ID if they haven’t done so yet, otherwise they might encounter difficulties when traveling in the future. Although authorities caution that this new type of identification is mandatory, there will still be alternative methods for domestic air travel even without possessing one.
Here’s all the information you require regarding the REAL ID:
What does the REAL ID act entail?
The REAL ID is a type of state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Officials claim these cards are more secure compared to standard IDs currently available.
Americans must possess a REAL ID – identified by either a golden or black star in the upper-right corner – to
fly domestically
.
The updated identification requirements will be implemented based on the REAL ID Act, passed in 2005 per the suggestions of the 9/11 Commission. This legislation aims to introduce “basic security criteria for drivers’ licenses and IDs issued by states.”
Although the REAL ID Act was scheduled to be implemented starting in 2008, it encountered numerous postponements due to states facing difficulties with adopting the legislation—further delayed by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Each state necessitates possession of a REAL ID and implements extra security checks. This typically involves providing greater evidence of identity along with documentation of residence, like a utility statement.
Who needs to obtain a REAL ID?
Each traveler aged 18 years or older must possess acceptable ID for passing through U.S. airport security checks.
Individuals who meet the criteria and aren’t utilizing a legitimate passport for internal trips could encounter travel issues.
Children aged 18 years or younger who are traveling alongside a guardian do not require personal identification provided that their accompanying person possesses an acceptable form of ID.
For what purpose is the REAL ID required?
The REAL ID is required for taking domestic flights inside the United States.
The updated ID is necessary for accessing certain federal buildings and facilities as well.
When will it take effect?
Beginning May 7, you must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to travel within the U.S.
Is there an alternative to the REAL ID?
Individuals intending to boarding a domestic flight without possessing a REAL ID must carry either a passport or another type of identification approved by the TSA.
Nevertheless, individuals lacking the REAL ID might encounter longer security queues prior to getting onboard the aircraft.
Individuals lacking the REAL ID might experience “holdups, extra checks, and even potential denial from accessing the security checkpoint,” according to Lisa Farbson, who represents the Transportation Security Administration.
Individuals can obtain REAL IDs from their respective state’s motor vehicle departments.
The criteria for obtaining an ID, along with the required documents, differ from one state to another.
Contributions for this piece came from the Associated Press.
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