On May 7, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will start requiring Real ID at airport security checkpoints nationwide.
What Is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a form of identity that satisfies security requirements set following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and is compliant with federal law. Typically, this type of identification is a driver’s license or state-issued ID.
Since some 9/11 hijackers used state IDs that were obtained fraudulently, Congress created the Real ID Act in 2005 to prevent identity fraud.
A gold or black star in the upper right corner indicates a real ID. Instead, some states have their insignia, such as California’s yellow bear. Your card is not Real ID-compliant if it does not include this icon.
Why Will You Need One on May 7th?
TSA has announced that, from May 7, passengers who are 18 years of age or older must present a Real ID to board domestic flights in the United States. If you don’t have it, you’ll need to provide another form of identity that has been authorised by the federal government.
The Department of Homeland Security explained, “The card is not REAL ID-compliant and will not be accepted as proof of identity to board commercial aircraft if it does not have one of these markings.”
How Can I Obtain a Real ID?
When you renew your existing licence or apply for a new one at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in your state, you can apply for a REAL ID. Make sure to express your desire for a REAL ID-compliant card to the cashier. Your new licence will have the necessary star marking when it is issued.
Most DMVs require you to complete the application procedure in person, and you will need to present certain documents to prove your identification, residency, and Social Security number.
What Happens If Your ID Isn’t Genuine?
You can still travel with another accepted form of identification if you haven’t obtained a real one by May 7th, like:
1. A current passport from the United States
2. A green card for permanent residence
3. A reliable traveler ID, such as a Global Entry card
But the TSA cautions that if you don’t have a Real ID, you might not be able to pass security and your trip may be delayed or subject to further inspection. “Identity verification is a lynchpin in security,” said Carter Langston, a spokesperson for the TSA, “and we will make sure that passengers are verified as being who they say they are before they can go beyond the checkpoint.”
You can’t fly internationally with a real ID. However, some states provide an improved ID that can be used to enter Canada and Mexico by land or sea that is compliant with Real ID.
