Can I Still Fly with My California Driver’s License?
As the Department of Homeland Security’s Real ID Act deadline approaches, many Californians are wondering if they can still use their state-issued driver’s licenses to board domestic flights. The Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation, sets stricter requirements for state-issued identification cards in order to enhance the security of air travel.
The deadline for compliance with the Real ID Act was originally set for October 1, 2020, but it was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new deadline is now October 1, 2021, after which time travelers without compliant identification will not be allowed to board domestic flights.
So, what does this mean for Californians with driver’s licenses issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)? The good news is that the California DMV has been issuing Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses since January 22, 2018. If you obtained or renewed your driver’s license after that date and opted for a Real ID-compliant card, you should have no problem using it to board domestic flights after the October 1, 2021 deadline.
However, if your California driver’s license was issued before January 22, 2018, and you did not opt for a Real ID-compliant card when you last renewed it, you will need to take action in order to ensure that you can continue to use it for air travel. The California DMV offers several options for upgrading to a Real ID-compliant card, including visiting a DMV office in person with the required documentation.
If you choose to upgrade your California driver’s license to a Real ID-compliant card, you will need to bring the following documents to a DMV office: a valid Social Security number, proof of your date of birth and legal presence in the United States, and two documents showing your California residential address. Acceptable documents for each category are listed on the California DMV website.
It’s important to note that upgrading to a Real ID-compliant driver’s license is not mandatory. Californians have the option to obtain a Real ID-compliant card, an enhanced driver’s license, or a passport in order to comply with the Real ID Act. However, if you choose not to upgrade your California driver’s license, you will need to bring an alternative form of identification, such as a passport or passport card, when flying domestically after October 1, 2021.
In addition to upgrading your California driver’s license or obtaining an alternative form of identification, there are a few other things you can do to ensure a smooth travel experience after the Real ID Act deadline. Make sure to arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for security screening, as lines may be longer than usual if travelers are not in compliance with the Real ID Act. It’s also a good idea to check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for the most up-to-date information on acceptable forms of identification for air travel.
Overall, the message to Californians is clear: if you want to continue using your California driver’s license to board domestic flights after October 1, 2021, you will need to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant card or obtain an alternative form of identification. Taking action now will help to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience in the future.
