REAL ID Requirement for Air Travel: What You Need to Know

Starting Wednesday, May 7, a new rule is in place for air travel in the U.S. All travelers must use a REAL ID-compliant state-issued ID or driver's license to board flights. The new rule is part of the ongoing effort to increase security at airports and federal facilities. Here’s everything you need to know about the REAL ID and what to expect at the airport.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a special identification card that meets federal security standards. These IDs are marked with a star in the top right corner, which lets officials know they meet the federal requirements for air travel and access to certain federal buildings.

From now on, only state-issued IDs and driver’s licenses that are REAL ID-compliant will be accepted at airport security checkpoints. If your ID doesn’t have the star, you will face extra screening at the airport, or you may be asked to show a different form of ID.

Can I Still Fly Without a REAL ID?

While the deadline to get a REAL ID is here, you will not be turned away from the airport if you don’t have one. However, you should expect extra security screening, which could delay your travel. TSA officials have confirmed that travelers without a REAL ID can still fly, but the process will take longer.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) assures travelers that they will not be turned away. TSA's Steve Lorincz emphasized that passengers who do not have a REAL ID will still be allowed to travel but should expect a longer wait at security checkpoints.

What Forms of ID Are Accepted?

If you don’t have a REAL ID, don’t worry. The TSA still accepts several other forms of identification for domestic flights. These include:

• U.S. passport or passport card
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• U.S. military ID
• TSA PreCheck card

If you don’t have any of these forms of ID, you may be asked to undergo identity verification. Once your identity is confirmed, you can proceed through security, but you might face additional screening.

Preparing for the REAL ID Change

The REAL ID deadline is part of the implementation of the 2005 REAL ID Act, which was recommended by the 9/11 Commission to improve security for domestic flights and federal buildings. While the rule is now in effect, many travelers were still rushing to get their REAL IDs, which has caused some frustration.

As of now, nearly 19% of travelers still don’t have a REAL ID, according to TSA reports. This last-minute rush has created long lines at Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) offices in some states. For example, in California, DMV offices are offering extended hours to accommodate people applying for a REAL ID.

What to Expect at the Airport

When you arrive at the airport after the May 7 deadline, the first thing you’ll notice is that there will be new procedures in place. If you have a REAL ID, the process will be the same as usual. However, if you don’t have one, be prepared for additional screening.

TSA Staff: TSA staff will be at every checkpoint to help direct you. They will help you figure out where to go if you don’t have a REAL ID or other acceptable ID.

Separate Lines: Some airports will have separate lines for people without REAL IDs, so be prepared for extra time at security.

Extra Screening: If you don’t have an acceptable ID, you may be asked to undergo extra screening to verify your identity. This could involve answering more questions or showing additional documents.

How to Know If You’re REAL ID Ready

The TSA has an online tool that can help you determine if you are REAL ID ready. By visiting the TSA website, you can check whether your state-issued ID meets the REAL ID requirements.

If you’re unsure about whether your ID has the star or not, it’s important to check before heading to the airport. If your ID doesn’t have the star, you can still fly, but you will face additional security procedures.

What States Are Doing to Prepare

Every state has a different process for issuing REAL IDs, and some states are experiencing higher-than-usual demand. For example:

California: The California DMV is offering extended hours and Saturday appointments to accommodate residents applying for a REAL ID.

New York: New York officials have warned of long lines at DMV offices as more people rush to get their REAL IDs. The state recommends applying at least four weeks before your travel date.

Oklahoma: The Oklahoma DMV encourages residents to apply as soon as possible to avoid delays.

If you live in a state that hasn’t yet issued a REAL ID or are still waiting for yours to arrive in the mail, you can still travel with your current ID. Just make sure to allow extra time at the airport for processing.

Plan Ahead and Stay Prepared

As the REAL ID rule goes into effect, the TSA is urging travelers to plan ahead and arrive early for their flights. With the extra screening process in place, it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to get through security.

The TSA advises all travelers to:

Arrive early: Plan to arrive at least two hours before your flight for domestic travel.

Be prepared: Make sure you have the correct identification, whether it’s a REAL ID, passport, or another accepted form.

Stay informed: Check the TSA website for any updates and to see if your state’s DMV has any additional requirements.

The new REAL ID rule is now in effect, but there’s no need to panic if you don’t have one yet. While travelers without a REAL ID can still fly, they should expect longer waits at security checkpoints. For the smoothest airport experience, it’s best to get a REAL ID ahead of time or carry an alternative form of identification like a passport or permanent resident card.

Remember, if you’re traveling soon, check your ID and allow extra time to get through security. Whether you have a REAL ID or not, the TSA is prepared to help you make it through the process and on your way to your destination.

Disclaimer

This content has been created by an AI language model and is intended to provide general information. While we strive to deliver accurate and reliable content, it may not always reflect the latest developments or expert opinions. The content should not be considered as professional or personalized advice. We encourage you to seek professional guidance and verify the information independently before making decisions based on this content.

This information is sourced from CNN