Flying with a Pennsylvania driver’s license has been a topic of confusion and concern for many travelers. Can you really use it as a valid form of identification to board a domestic flight? The answer is yes, but with certain caveats that passengers should be aware of.
For years, there has been a misconception that a state-issued driver’s license is not sufficient for air travel. This belief stems from the Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 to improve security standards for state-issued identification cards. Under the Real ID Act, all states are required to issue compliant identification cards that meet certain security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Pennsylvania was one of the last states to comply with the Real ID Act, causing confusion among travelers who were unsure if their driver’s license would be accepted at airport security. In 2019, Pennsylvania finally began issuing Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses, giving residents the option to upgrade to a more secure form of identification.
However, even if you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, you can still use your standard Pennsylvania driver’s license to board a domestic flight. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts non-compliant licenses as long as they are valid and not expired. In addition to a driver’s license, passengers can also use other forms of identification such as a passport, military ID, or permanent resident card.
Despite the acceptance of non-compliant licenses, there are still some limitations to consider when using a Pennsylvania driver’s license for air travel. For example, passengers with non-compliant licenses may be subject to additional screening at airport security checkpoints. This can result in longer wait times and potential delays, so it is important to arrive at the airport early to allow for extra time.
In addition, travelers with non-compliant licenses will need to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant form of identification by October 1, 2021, in order to board domestic flights. This deadline was extended from the original date of October 1, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After the deadline passes, passengers without a Real ID-compliant license will need to use an alternative form of identification to fly within the United States.
To obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license in Pennsylvania, residents are required to provide additional documentation such as a birth certificate, social security card, and two proofs of residency. This process can be completed at a Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, but it is recommended to make an appointment in advance to avoid long wait times.
Overall, flying with a Pennsylvania driver’s license is possible, but passengers should be aware of the limitations and requirements associated with non-compliant licenses. It is always a good idea to check with the TSA or your airline before traveling to ensure you have the necessary identification to board your flight. By staying informed and prepared, you can have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience with your Pennsylvania driver’s license.
