On Wednesday, things change. If you plan to travel within the U.S., your regular government-issued identification lacking the gold star in the corner won’t be enough for clearance at the airports anymore.
According to the state Department of Motor Vehicles, more than 2 million individuals in our state possess a REAL ID, with approximately 31,000 being issued last month.
This transformation has been unfolding for several decades, originating shortly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
“What this will truly accomplish is stopping terrorists from getting onto airplanes. Essentially, we’re ensuring that individuals boarding planes are indeed who they claim to be,” stated Dan Velez, the New England TSA spokesperson.
For several months, airports have been spreading awareness by displaying signs and broadcasting informational videos throughout the terminal prior to passengers reaching the security checkpoints.
If you do not possess a REAL ID, you may instead utilize your passport or over a dozen alternative types of government-issued identification to pass through security checks. Should none of these documents be available to you, additional screenings will apply, potentially adding about an hour to your wait time.
“If you lack a STAR or are uncertain about your REAL ID compliance, we recommend allocating extra time upon arrival at the airport for security processes and to verify that all necessary documentation is correctly arranged for your journey,” stated Tom Cavaliore, the Director of Community Engagement at Tweed New Haven Airport.
In order to earn the gold star on your license, you must visit the DMV in person. Following your DMV appointment, your REAL ID will be mailed to you, which may take around a few weeks to arrive.
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