Traveling with just your driver’s license may soon become a possibility for domestic flights in the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is considering allowing travelers to board a plane with just their driver’s license, rather than needing a passport or other approved form of identification.
This potential change comes as a result of the REAL ID Act, which has been in effect since 2005. Under this act, all travelers over the age of 18 are required to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification in order to board a domestic flight. This includes a driver’s license that meets certain security standards, as well as other approved forms of ID such as a passport or a state-issued ID card.
However, the TSA is now considering amending these requirements to allow travelers to board a plane with just their driver’s license. This proposed change is being considered in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has made obtaining a passport or other forms of ID more difficult for some travelers.
If this change is implemented, it would make traveling by air much easier for many Americans, particularly those who may have difficulty obtaining a passport or other approved form of ID. It would also streamline the boarding process and reduce the need for travelers to carry multiple forms of identification.
While this potential change is still being considered by the TSA, it has already sparked debate among travelers and security experts. Some argue that allowing travelers to board a plane with just their driver’s license could pose a security risk, as driver’s licenses are not as secure as other forms of ID such as passports.
Others believe that with advancements in technology, driver’s licenses can now be made more secure and reliable for air travel. Many states have already implemented enhanced security features on their driver’s licenses, such as holograms and biometric data, to prevent fraud and counterfeiting.
Despite the potential security concerns, many travelers are hopeful that this change will be implemented, as it would make traveling by air more convenient and accessible for all Americans. It would also align with the TSA’s goal of enhancing security while ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience for passengers.
In order to board a domestic flight with just a driver’s license, travelers would still need to ensure that their driver’s license is REAL ID-compliant. This means that the driver’s license must meet certain security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security, such as featuring a star or other indicator on the front of the card.
Additionally, travelers may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of citizenship or residency, in order to board a plane with just their driver’s license. This would help to verify the traveler’s identity and ensure that they are eligible to fly domestically.
Overall, the potential change to allow travelers to board a plane with just their driver’s license is still in the early stages of consideration by the TSA. While it may bring about some security concerns, many travelers are hopeful that this change will be implemented to make air travel more accessible and convenient for all Americans.
