Can I Fly with My Regular Driver’s License? The Answer Might Surprise You
When it comes to traveling by air, there are a lot of rules and regulations that passengers need to abide by. One of the most common questions that travelers have is whether or not they can fly with their regular driver’s license. The answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think.
In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers over the age of 18 to present a valid form of identification before boarding a domestic flight. While a driver’s license is one of the most commonly accepted forms of ID, not all driver’s licenses are created equal.
In January 2018, the Real ID Act went into effect, which set stricter standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. This means that not all driver’s licenses are Real ID-compliant, and if your state-issued ID does not meet these new standards, you will not be able to use it to board a domestic flight.
So, what exactly makes a driver’s license Real ID-compliant? In order to be considered valid for air travel, a Real ID-compliant driver’s license must have a star in the top right corner. This star indicates that the ID meets the new security standards set forth by the TSA.
If your driver’s license does not have a star, you may still be able to use it to fly domestically, but you will need to present an alternative form of ID as well. Acceptable forms of identification include a passport, a military ID, a permanent resident card, or a Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler card, among others.
It’s important to note that the Real ID Act only applies to domestic air travel. If you are traveling internationally, you will still need to present a valid passport, regardless of whether or not your driver’s license is Real ID-compliant.
Furthermore, even if your driver’s license is Real ID-compliant, there are some instances in which you may still run into issues when trying to use it as identification. For example, if the information on your ID does not match the information provided during the airline ticket booking process, you may be subject to additional screening or even denied boarding.
In addition, some airlines may have their own policies regarding acceptable forms of identification. It’s always a good idea to check with your specific airline before heading to the airport to ensure that you have the proper documentation.
Ultimately, the answer to the question “Can I fly with my regular driver’s license?” depends on whether or not your ID is Real ID-compliant. If it is, you should have no issues using it as identification for domestic air travel. If not, you will need to present an alternative form of ID in order to board your flight.
So, before you head to the airport for your next trip, be sure to double-check the status of your driver’s license and make sure that you have the proper identification to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
