While the Real ID Act has been in effect for several years now, there is still some confusion surrounding its requirements and how it affects air travel. One common misconception is whether or not you can fly without a Real ID driver’s license. The answer may surprise you.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, making it more difficult for terrorists and criminals to obtain fraudulent identification. As part of the act, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all travelers to have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another accepted form of identification to board a domestic flight.
So, can you fly without a Real ID driver’s license? The short answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as just showing up at the airport with any old ID. If you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, you will need to present an alternative form of identification. According to the TSA’s website, acceptable forms of identification include:
– U.S. passport
– U.S. passport card
– DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
– U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
– Permanent resident card
– Border crossing card
– State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
If you do not have any of these forms of identification, you may still be able to fly by presenting two forms of identification from the following list:
– State-issued driver’s license or identification card
– U.S. social security card
– Birth certificate issued by a state or local government
– U.S. citizen ID card
– U.S. military ID
– Employment authorization document
– U.S. merchant mariner document
It is important to note that the TSA has the final say on whether or not your identification is acceptable. If you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another accepted form of identification, you may be subject to additional screening or even denied boarding.
So, why all the fuss about Real ID? The main concern is security. By requiring all travelers to have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another accepted form of identification, the TSA aims to increase the security of domestic flights and reduce the risk of terrorists and criminals using fraudulent identification to board an airplane. Additionally, the Real ID Act allows for better data sharing between states, making it easier to verify the validity of a driver’s license or identification card.
If you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, you still have options when it comes to flying. By presenting an alternative form of identification, such as a U.S. passport or state-issued driver’s license, you can still board a domestic flight. However, it is recommended that you obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license to avoid any potential issues or delays at the airport.
In conclusion, while the Real ID Act has changed the way we travel, you can still fly without a Real ID driver’s license by presenting an alternative form of identification. Whether you choose to use a U.S. passport, state-issued driver’s license, or another accepted form of identification, be sure to check the TSA’s website for the most up-to-date information on acceptable forms of identification. Safe travels!
