Driver’s License Changes for Flying: What You Need to Know
In a move that has caught many travelers by surprise, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced changes to the identification requirements for domestic air travel. Beginning next year, travelers will no longer be able to use their standard driver’s license as a form of identification to board a domestic flight. Instead, they will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another form of acceptable identification to pass through security checkpoints.
The Real ID Act of 2005 was passed by Congress in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the goal of improving the security of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, and prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards for official purposes, including boarding a domestic flight.
The deadline for states to comply with the Real ID Act has been extended multiple times since it was first passed, but beginning on October 1, 2021, all travelers will be required to present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to board a domestic flight. This includes all U.S. citizens, as well as travelers from U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.
To obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, travelers will need to visit their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and provide documentation to prove their identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and residence. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, Social Security card, and two proofs of residence, such as a utility bill or rental agreement. Once the required documents have been submitted and verified, travelers will receive a new driver’s license with a star symbol in the upper right corner, indicating that it is Real ID-compliant.
For travelers who do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, there are several other forms of acceptable identification that can be used to board a domestic flight. These include a valid U.S. passport, a passport card, a Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler card (such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck), a federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID, or a Department of Defense ID.
It’s important to note that the changes to the identification requirements for domestic air travel only apply to travelers 18 years of age and older. Children under the age of 18 will not be required to present identification when traveling with an adult. Additionally, the new requirements do not apply to international flights, as travelers will still need a valid passport to board an international flight.
The TSA has been working to educate travelers about the upcoming changes to the identification requirements for domestic air travel, through a nationwide campaign called “REAL ID: Prepare Now.” The campaign includes informational materials and outreach efforts to help travelers understand what is required to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license and other acceptable forms of identification.
Despite these efforts, there is still concern that many travelers may not be aware of the changes to the identification requirements for domestic air travel, or may not have taken the necessary steps to ensure that they have the proper identification before the deadline. To help address these concerns, the TSA has established a website where travelers can find more information about the Real ID Act and how to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license.
Overall, the changes to the identification requirements for domestic air travel represent a significant shift in how travelers will need to prove their identity when boarding a flight. By familiarizing themselves with the new requirements and taking the necessary steps to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, travelers can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
