U.S. travelers flying domestically will soon need more than just any driver’s license to get through airport security.
Starting May 7, all adults flying within the United States must present a REAL ID-compliant license or another approved form of identification at TSA checkpoints, the Transportation Security Administration warns.
“If your license doesn’t meet federal REAL ID standards, you won’t be allowed to board your flight unless you have an alternative form of ID, like a valid passport,” said Patricia Mancha, TSA media spokesperson. “Now is the time to check your wallet — before summer travel begins.”
What is a REAL ID — and do you have one?
REAL ID-compliant licenses are marked by a small star in the upper right-hand corner. They are issued in every state and U.S. territory. In Texas, all driver’s licenses have met REAL ID standards since 2016, making the state 98% compliant. But residents who have not renewed their license since before that date should confirm its status.
Not sure? Look for the star. Still unsure? Go to tsa.gov/real-id to check.
Across the U.S., about 81% of residents have upgraded to REAL ID. But in some states like Arizona or California, residents are still allowed to choose between a standard and REAL ID license — leading to confusion at the airport.
“If your license doesn’t have the star, don’t assume it’s valid for flying,” Mancha said. “You need to check with your state’s DMV before your trip.”
What occurs if you arrive without a REAL ID?
TSA agents might still confirm your identification details—but there’s no assurance of this, and the procedure could be time-consuming and nerve-wracking, according to Mancha.
“It’s like a soft credit check. We’ll ask questions about past addresses, vehicle ownership, or other personal history,” she said. “But if there are 100 people without ID, and you’re number 99, you may miss your flight.”
Accepted alternative types of identification
If you don’t have a REAL ID, you’ll need one of the following to fly:
- A valid U.S. or international passport (must not be expired)
- Permanent Resident Card (green card)
- Federally recognized tribal ID
- Department of Defense ID
- TID (Transportation Worker IdentificationCredential)
- Merchant Mariner Credential
A full list is available at tsa.gov/real-id.
Don’t wait until it’s too late
Mancha encouraged travelers to act immediately—particularly as the summer travel season approaches in just a few weeks, when airports experience their peak traffic, including numerous families, kids, and senior citizens.
We aim to avoid public alarm; instead, we encourage preparation,” she stated. “This is because traveling isn’t solely for holidays or work-related journeys. Numerous individuals embark on travels due to unforeseen circumstances such as funerals, illnesses, or farewells.
Mancha suggests that even if you seldom travel, obtaining a REAL ID is still a prudent decision.
Key tips from TSA:
- Kids under 18 aren’t required to show ID, however, their parent or legal guardian needs to provide either a REAL ID or some other accepted form of documentation.
- The REAL ID is not equivalent to a passport. Even with a REAL ID, you will still require your passport for international travel as well as when returning to the country.
- Photocopies or photos of IDs are not accepted. Only physical, unexpired documents are valid.
- Get there ahead of schedule: Two hours prior for domestic trips and three for international ones. Allow additional time if your ID isn’t REAL ID compliant.
Finally, Mancha offered this reminder: “Even if you think May 7 doesn’t affect you — because you’re not flying until July or August — summer is just around the corner. Now is the time to act.”
The article initially appeared on Amarillo Globe-News:
Just one day remains! The TSA is urging passengers to verify their compliance with REAL ID regulations to prevent potential airport hold-ups. Find out how here.
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