Needed To Fly: The Real ID

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The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards. The purposes covered by the Act are: accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.

 The Transportation Security Administration is reminding travelers that beginning October 1, 2021, every traveler must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, or another acceptable form of identification, to fly within the United States. TSA has launched a public awareness campaign about the upcoming identification changes to ensure that every traveler is prepared for the airport security checkpoint process when the REAL ID Act goes into full enforcement.

 Every traveler will have until October 1, 2021 to make sure your driver’s license is compliant. Click here to see a list of other acceptable forms of identification, such as a valid Passport or U.S. military ID, which can be used to fly within the United States. Travelers who are unable to verify their identity will not be allowed to enter the TSA checkpoint and will not be allowed to fly. 

What you will need to obtain your REAL ID at your state’s Motor Vehicle Agency:

 ~Proof of your full legal name (Marriage license, or divorce decree if your name is not the same on all of the documents
~Proof of your identity (Birth Certificate)
~Proof of your Social Security Number (Social Security Card, W-2 form, or a payroll check stub from work
~Proof of residency (Monthly mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a utility bill)

Requirements may vary slightly by state so be sure to check the website of your state to make sure you have all the necessary documentation in hand before you head to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Make sure your ID is good to go before your next flight!