Arizona residents who are used to flying domestically may be wondering whether they can still use their Arizona driver’s license as a form of identification when flying. The answer is yes, for now.
In 2005, the U.S. Congress passed the REAL ID Act, which set standards for the issuance of driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act requires states to meet certain security standards in order for their licenses to be accepted for federal purposes, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.
The Department of Homeland Security granted Arizona an extension to comply with the REAL ID Act, which means Arizona driver’s licenses are still acceptable forms of identification when flying within the United States. However, this extension is set to expire on October 1, 2020.
After this date, Arizona residents will need to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license in order to board a domestic flight. A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license will have a gold star in the upper right-hand corner. If your current Arizona driver’s license does not have a gold star, you will need to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license before the October 1, 2020 deadline.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, Arizona residents will need to visit the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) and bring the following documents:
– Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
– Proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form
– Two proofs of Arizona residency, such as a utility bill or bank statement
There will also be a fee to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, so residents should be prepared to pay this cost.
It is important for Arizona residents to take action now to ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license before the deadline. Without a compliant license, residents will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. This could cause significant inconvenience and disruption to travel plans.
In addition to having a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, Arizona residents can also use other forms of identification when flying, such as a passport or U.S. military ID. These forms of identification are already compliant with the REAL ID Act and do not require any additional action on the part of the individual.
For residents who may not fly frequently or who do not have a need for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, it is still recommended to obtain one to ensure seamless travel in the future. The requirements for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license are straightforward and should not pose a significant burden to most individuals.
In conclusion, Arizona residents can still use their Arizona driver’s license to fly domestically, but this will change after October 1, 2020. Residents should take action now to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to avoid any issues when traveling in the future. By being proactive and obtaining the necessary documentation, Arizona residents can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
