Can You Fly With a Regular Driver’s License?
In recent years, there has been some confusion surrounding the question of whether or not you can use a regular driver’s license to fly within the United States. Many travelers have found themselves unsure of the rules and regulations surrounding this issue, leading to frustration and even missed flights. To clarify this matter once and for all, let’s take a closer look at the requirements for flying with a regular driver’s license.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that the answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. The laws surrounding identification requirements for air travel have evolved over the years, and there are now multiple options for travelers looking to prove their identity at the airport. In addition to a regular driver’s license, other acceptable forms of identification include a passport, a Department of Defense ID, a permanent resident card, or a trusted traveler card such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
The key factor in determining whether or not you can fly with a regular driver’s license is whether or not your license is Real ID-compliant. Real ID is a set of security standards established by the Department of Homeland Security in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The goal of Real ID is to ensure that all state-issued identification meets certain minimum standards, making it more difficult for fraudulent IDs to be used for illegal purposes.
As of October 1, 2020, all domestic air travelers will be required to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification in order to board a plane. This means that if your driver’s license is not Real ID-compliant, you will not be able to use it to fly within the United States. If you are unsure if your license is Real ID-compliant, you can check for a star or other indicator on the front of the card that indicates its status.
For those who do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, there are several options for obtaining an alternative form of identification. One of the most common alternatives is a passport, which is accepted for all types of air travel, both domestic and international. Passports can take several weeks to process, so it is important to plan ahead if you anticipate needing one for an upcoming trip.
Another option for travelers without a Real ID-compliant driver’s license is to obtain a passport card. This smaller, less expensive version of a traditional passport is valid for land and sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, but it cannot be used for international air travel. However, it can serve as a convenient backup form of identification for domestic flights if your driver’s license is not accepted.
If you frequently travel by air and are looking for a more convenient form of identification, you may want to consider applying for a trusted traveler card such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. These programs allow pre-approved travelers to access expedited security screening lanes and avoid the need to remove their shoes, belts, and laptops at the checkpoint. While these programs require a separate application and a fee, they can be a valuable time-saving tool for frequent flyers.
In summary, while it is possible to fly with a regular driver’s license, there are important caveats to keep in mind. If your license is not Real ID-compliant, you will not be able to use it to board a plane after October 1, 2020. In that case, you will need to obtain an alternative form of identification, such as a passport or passport card, in order to travel by air. Trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are also options for expedited security screening and added convenience while flying.
As always, it is important to stay informed about the latest rules and regulations surrounding air travel to avoid any unexpected issues at the airport. By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience every time you fly.
