For years, the US government has warned travelers that they will soon need an actual ID to board domestic flights, just to continue postponing deadlines. However, this time “Soon” looks like the real thing.
As of May 7, standard driver's licenses or state IDs do not pass convocations at airport security checkpoints, the Department of Homeland Security said. Instead, passengers will need to present another approved identification format, such as an actual ID or passport surrounded by a star with enhanced security.
The nearly 20-year change aims to enhance security by setting more consistent standards for state-issued documents over the next 20 years, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Here's what you need to know about the next deadline:
What is an actual ID?
A real ID is a federal government-compliant state-issued driver's license, learner's permission, or non-controller ID. Actual IDs are generally marked with gold or black-stars, with different appearances depending on the state and territory.
Residents of US states or territory who wish to use their driver's license or nondriver ID at TSA checkpoints must ensure that it complies with their actual ID. A driver license without a star is not an actual ID. Some non-violation IDs also include the phrase “federal restrictions apply.”
The proportion of Americans who renew their driver licenses with actual ID compliance appears to vary widely from state to state. For example, Pennsylvania, where long boundaries were reported in licensing offices, is just over 26%, the state Department of Transport said. In California, it's just over 55%.
Why does the government need an actual ID?
The hijackers responsible for the September 11, 2001 attack carried the driver's license and state ID. In the aftermath, the government pushed for strengthening national standards for state-issued documents, and in 2005 Congress passed the Actual Identity Act.
This law sets the minimum standards for licenses and other types of identification cards. The enforcement of the Real Identity Act was originally scheduled to begin in 2008, but has been repeatedly delayed for a variety of reasons, including the Covid-19 pandemic and opposition from states concerned about privacy.
Will my actual ID replace my passport?
The actual ID will reach domestic flights, but you will not be able to cross borders, including Canada and Mexico borders. They cannot be used on international cruises either. For such trips, you will most likely always need a passport.
However, a small number of states, including Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Washington and Vermont, offer enhanced driver licenses that travelers can use to cross land and sea borders to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean without a passport.
The enhanced license is based on your actual ID, but displays the American flag instead of the star. The location of the card flags varies by state.
The expanded license cannot be used in place of a passport if you are traveling internationally per air. They are also available only to US citizens. Costs vary by state. For example, in Minnesota, it's another $15. In New York it costs another $30.
Are there any other IDs that can be used at the airport?
The TSA also accepts certain other forms of identification at airport security checkpoints. These include valid passports, permanent resident cards (also known as green cards), and cards for trusted traveller programs such as Global Entry and Nexus.
According to the US State Department, about 48% of Americans have passports.
How do I get the actual ID?
To apply for an actual ID, you usually need to provide a Social Security number or proof of ineligibility, back up your address through documents such as utility invoices and bank statements, and verify your identity and legal status through a few additional documents such as birth certificates and passports.
Check the state driver licensing agency website to find out how to apply and learn more about the specific documents you need.
Getting your actual ID probably involves making a face-to-face appointment, but that may take some time. There have been reports of long lines at licensing offices across the state, including Pennsylvania and Kentucky. New York is increasing service hours in some offices and increasing number of bookings to meet demand.
Many states, including South Carolina and New York, do not have additional costs to receive your actual ID if you have already renewed your license. However, some states will incur additional charges. For example, Pennsylvania charges a one-time, one-time, $30 fee in addition to the cost of an update when you first upgrade to a Real ID.
Do kids and teens need real IDs?
The TSA does not require that anyone under the age of 18 indicate a domestic travel identification. Individual airlines have their own policies as to which types of ID minors are required to carry.
Children of all ages need to carry their passports for international travel.
Are flyers without an actual ID really turning away?
The Department of Homeland Security has warned on its website that travelers must adhere to it as of May 7th.
However, the TSA has general guidance that after additional identity verification, the identification form of the accepted identification form at the airport may still be allowed to fly. If you are in doubt, you can board a plane, whether your passport is a domestic or international flight.
Late last year, the TSA proposed rules that would allow for a gradual two-year transition to full enforcement of actual IDs.
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