As of this week, U.S. travelers boarding domestic flights must present REAL ID-compliant identification, marking a significant shift in airport security protocols. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that certain standard driver’s licenses and IDs will no longer suffice for airline travel or access to some federal facilities. This policy change follows years of delays, prompting a rush among residents to obtain compliant IDs at motor vehicle offices, leading to congestion and long wait times.
A REAL ID is a security-enhanced identification card issued by all 50 states, marked with a star in the upper right corner. By May 7, 2025, every traveler will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant license, an alternative acceptable ID (like a passport), or risk being directed to additional screening at airports. The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005 in response to 9/11 Commission recommendations, established federal standards for ID issuance, disallowing non-compliant IDs for federal purposes.
To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must visit their state’s licensing agency and provide documentation proving their full legal name, birth date, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful immigration status. The TSA will not accept temporary paper IDs, and non-compliance at checkpoints may result in additional screening or denial of entry to security areas.
For domestic flights, minors do not need a REAL ID if traveling with an adult, although they will still require passports for international travel. Acceptable alternatives to REAL ID include valid passports and Enhanced IDs. Passengers are encouraged to check their state’s requirements to ensure compliance before travel.
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