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The deadline for U.S. travelers to acquire a Real ID is rapidly approaching, and those lacking one may be barred from boarding domestic flights within the United States. Understanding the Real ID requirements is crucial for hassle-free travel. This upgraded form of identification adds a layer of security for air travel.
The Real ID card is an optional, enhanced driver’s license or state identification card issued by a state driver’s licensing agency, visibly marked with a star. Obtaining a Real ID ensures compliance with federal regulations for air travel, providing a standardized form of identification recognized nationwide.
Fortunately, alternative forms of identification are available for U.S. travelers, such as a valid U.S. passport, passport card, permanent resident card, or specific Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler cards. Therefore if obtaining a Real ID by the May 7 deadline isn’t possible, passengers still have options. These alternatives furnish a means to traverse airport security efficiently and without delay.
“There are alternatives people can utilize,” stated John Breyault, a travel authority at the National Consumers League, a consumer advocacy organization. “Most individuals already possess the capability to travel, irrespective of having a Real ID or not.”
Approximately 19% of travelers are yet to possess a Real ID-compliant form of identification, according to Transportation Security Administration data as of Thursday.
Passengers arriving at the airport without satisfactory identification “can anticipate encountering delays, additional screening, and the potential denial of entry into the security checkpoint,” according to the TSA. It’s crucial to ensure you have acceptable identification to avoid disruptions to your travel plans.
Even passengers possessing a Real ID card or other acceptable identification should plan to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before their scheduled flight, anticipating increased delays in airport security lines as enforcement commences, Breyault advised.
Understanding the Real ID Act
Congress enacted the Real ID Act in 2005. This legislation established baseline security criteria for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Real ID Act aims to enhance security measures and standardize identification for federal purposes, including air travel.
Starting May 7, the federal government will mandate that Americans accessing federal facilities possess a Real ID. This includes travelers navigating TSA airport security checkpoints and boarding commercial airplanes, including domestic flights. Compliance with the Real ID Act ensures seamless access to federal facilities and air travel.
This regulation applies to all airline passengers aged 18 and older, encompassing TSA PreCheck members. Therefore even expedited screening programs necessitate adherence to the Real ID requirements or presentation of an acceptable alternative.
Navigating Air Travel Without a Real ID
Travelers can sidestep the necessity of presenting a Real ID card by utilizing alternative approved forms of identification. These options provide flexibility for individuals who may not have obtained a Real ID. Alternatives offer equivalent verification for airport security and domestic air travel.
Experts recommend that the most common alternatives include: a passport or passport card; a Global Entry card; an enhanced driver’s license issued by Washington state, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont; or a permanent resident card, otherwise known as a green card. These credentials ensure compliance with TSA regulations and facilitate streamlined travel.
Here’s a detailed compilation of all acceptable alternatives, as specified by the TSA:
- State-issued enhanced driver’s license
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- Department of Homeland Security-issued 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
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation worker identification credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
The Importance of Obtaining a Real ID
Traveling with an alternative document like a passport for domestic flights may present slightly elevated risks, according to Sally French, a travel specialist at NerdWallet. While alternatives exist, ensuring you have the correct documents is crucial.
“Replacing a passport is significantly more complex and costly compared to a driver’s license,” French noted. “It is sensible to acquire a Real ID.” Protecting your essential travel documents is paramount.
Renewing a standard passport book incurs a cost of $130. Real ID fees differ by state but generally represent a lower expense, experts indicate. Commonly, they do not exceed the cost of a conventional driver’s license. Considering the cost and simplicity, opting for a Real ID can be the more convenient choice.
For instance, in California, renewing a standard driver’s license costs $45, while renewing a regular ID card is $39; in Virginia, a one-time Real ID fee of $10 is added to the driver’s license fee, which is generally $32. Understanding the specific fees for your state allows you to prepare financially for obtaining a Real ID.
Desperate travelers might also take a chance by going to the airport without a Real ID-compliant form of identification on or after May 7, hoping that airport agents exhibit discretion, French suggested. While this route is possible, it’s not recommended.
It involves a “considerably extended screening” procedure and lacks assurance, French explained. It resembles a “Hail Mary” attempt. Relying on this approach could lead to unforeseen delays or denial of boarding, underscoring the need for proactive compliance with Real ID regulations.