Can you travel with a non-compliant driver’s license?
In recent years, there has been a growing concern and confusion surrounding the issue of traveling with a non-compliant driver’s license. Many people are unsure about what exactly constitutes a compliant driver’s license and whether or not they can still use a non-compliant license to travel. This has led to a lot of misinformation and uncertainty among travelers, causing unnecessary stress and frustration.
To clear up any confusion, let’s first discuss what exactly a compliant driver’s license is. In the United States, the REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 attacks. The Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant licenses for certain official purposes, such as boarding a domestic flight.
States have been given until October 1, 2020, to comply with the REAL ID Act and issue compliant driver’s licenses. These licenses are marked with a star in the upper right corner, indicating that they meet the federal security standards. In order to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, individuals must provide documentation proving their identity, Social Security number, residency, and citizenship status.
So what does this mean for travelers with non-compliant driver’s licenses? Can they still use their license to board a domestic flight? The short answer is yes, but with some caveats. If you have a non-compliant license, you can still use it to fly domestically until the October 1, 2020 deadline. After that date, however, you will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport or military ID, to board a domestic flight.
It’s important to note that the REAL ID Act only applies to domestic flights, so if you are traveling internationally, you can still use a non-compliant license as long as you have a valid passport. Additionally, non-compliant licenses are still valid for driving purposes and other non-federal identification needs.
While the REAL ID Act has caused some confusion and inconvenience for travelers, its primary goal is to enhance the security of state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses. By implementing stricter security standards and requirements, the Act aims to reduce the risk of identity theft and fraud, as well as enhance national security.
In conclusion, travelers with non-compliant driver’s licenses can still use their license to fly domestically until the October 1, 2020 deadline. After that date, a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification will be required to board a domestic flight. It’s important to plan ahead and ensure that you have the proper identification before traveling to avoid any last-minute complications.
