If you have travel plans, take notice: The deadline to begin requiring REAL IDs at U.S. airports has arrived.
As of Wednesday, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification, for domestic air travel and to enter certain federal facilities.
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The new ID meets the federal standard and is characterized in Massachusetts by a gold star placed on the top right of the license. Some states use other symbols on their credentials.
“Essentially, it’s an ID with enhanced security measures built into it. So when you show that REAL ID, it’s much stronger at proving who you are,” said Mark Schieldrop, a spokesperson for AAA.
Travelers won’t be turned away at the airport if they don’t have a REAL ID, but they should expect to face additional screening.
Temporary paper REAL IDs issued to travelers as they wait for their license in the mail will not be accepted by the TSA.
If you still have an old-style Massachusetts license or ID without that gold star, the upgrade process begins at the Registry of Motor Vehicles or on the
registry’s website.
Candidates must demonstrate their status as U.S. citizens or verify that they possess lawful residency within the United States.
Features of
REAL IDs include
:
- Full legal name
- Residential address
- Birth date
- Gender
- Driver’s license/identification card number
- Digital front-facing photograph
- Signature
- Uniform barcodes and safety mechanisms
The REAL ID Act was enacted by Congress to enhance national security following the September 11, 2001, terror attacks. Massachusetts started issuing enhanced IDs in 2018.
More information on the REAL ID registration process can be found on the
RMV’s website
.
Video: Don’t Have a REAL ID Yet? Here’s How Massachusetts Residents Can Obtain One
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READ THE FULL STORY:
The REAL ID deadline has arrived: Here’s what Massachusetts residents need to know for obtaining one.
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