What is REAL ID?
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act 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 state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.
Federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, may only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as identification for purposes of accessing federal facilities - including TSA airport security checkpoints.
How do I get a REAL ID?
It depends on the state in which you live. Be sure to make a plan with your local DMV to be REAL ID ready. You can use this DHS interactive tool to find out if you are ready.
Is my ID Compliant?
REAL ID compliant cards will have of one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won’t be accepted as proof of identity in order to board commercial aircraft.
Where can I get more information?
The best source for the latest information is available at the DHS website specifically related to REAL ID. There you can access FAQs and your individual state websites for information. Be sure to check only the official websites to avoid confusion or mistakes. The website is https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.
Remember - there are less than 7 Months Left Before REAL ID Enforcement Begins
The countdown has begun. For years now we were being told about REAL ID and every time the deadline was extended. Not this time. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued steps to make sure that everyone knows about the May 3rd, 2023 deadline and you will need a REAL ID compliant driver's license to fly within the USA (unless you use a passport or one of the documents in the exception list).
Don't procrastinate
No matter how many notices, videos, emails go out about the deadline, there will always be those who do not get this done. They will be sure to face issues at the airport. Don't wait until the last minute either. Others will and you do not want to get caught up in the rush. Remember, the DMV is not that efficient either.
