Can I Fly with My California Driver’s License?
Many Californians have found themselves asking this question as they prepare for their upcoming travel plans. With the implementation of the REAL ID Act, there has been some confusion surrounding whether or not a California driver’s license is sufficient for air travel. In this article, we will provide clarity on this issue and help you understand what you need to know before heading to the airport.
The REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005, established new security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The goal of the law was to enhance the security of state-issued IDs in order to prevent identity theft and fraud. Under the REAL ID Act, states were required to issue compliant identification cards that meet federal standards in order for residents to use them for certain official purposes, including boarding domestic flights.
California began issuing REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards in 2018. These IDs are marked with a gold bear and a star located in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that they meet the federal standards required for air travel. However, this transition to REAL ID-compliant IDs has caused some confusion among travelers, leading many to wonder if their current California driver’s license is acceptable for flying.
The short answer is yes, you can still fly with a non-REAL ID compliant California driver’s license. The Department of Homeland Security has extended the deadline for enforcement of REAL ID requirements for domestic air travel multiple times, most recently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The current deadline for enforcement is October 1, 2021. This means that until that date, travelers can use their non-REAL ID compliant California driver’s license to board domestic flights.
It’s important to note that even after the October 1 deadline, there are still other forms of acceptable identification that can be used for domestic air travel. These include a valid U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry or NEXUS), and certain state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses (not currently available in California). If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license by the October 1 deadline, you will need to bring one of these alternative forms of identification to the airport in order to board your flight.
While a non-REAL ID compliant California driver’s license is currently still acceptable for domestic air travel, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and ensure that you have the appropriate identification with you when you head to the airport. If you have the option to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license before the October 1 deadline, it may be a good idea to do so in order to avoid any potential issues or delays at the airport.
In conclusion, yes, you can fly with your California driver’s license, even if it is not REAL ID compliant, until October 1, 2021. However, it’s important to be aware of the upcoming deadline and make sure you have the appropriate identification with you when you travel. By planning ahead and understanding the requirements, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Safe travels!
