After detailed introduction, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will eventually require U.S. travelers to carry it Real ID card for domestic airport travel Starting this spring. Starting in May, regular driver’s licenses will no longer be safe by TSA.
Here is all you need to know about the actual ID requirements coming to make sure your trip goes smoothly.
What is the real ID method?
Congress passed the True ID Act in 2005 in response to the 9/11 committee’s recommendation that the government set clearer “standards” for “issuing sources of identity verification (such as driver’s licenses”).
The law establishes a unified set of specifications for driver’s licenses and other government-issued ID cards, prohibiting government agencies from accepting proof of identity that does not meet the standards of the True ID Act.
One of the goals of the bill is to add additional security to commercial aviation by making it difficult for people to access the aircraft to gain false documents. Government agencies need more files when issuing real IDs, and cards are more advanced, making them harder to forge.
The law took twenty years to implement, as each state has different standards and processes to issue photo IDs. Several states and the American Civil Liberties Union criticized the law, saying the federal government was overly involved.
The “Real Identity Card Law” officially came into effect on May 7.
How to tell if you have a real ID
Since the law has been on books for a while, many states have started issuing real IDs by deadlines, which means you may already have a real ID.
Typically, an ID with a star or star cutout is a true ID.
Daily Newsletter
Reward your inbox with TPG Daily Newsletter
Join over 700,000 readers for breaking news, in-depth guides and exclusive deals from TPG experts
However, if your ID card loses stars or says something like “federal restrictions apply” or “not suitable for federal logos”, you don’t have a real ID card.
All 50 states in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, U.S. Samoa and North Mariana Islands are now releasing compliance IDs. But just because you live in a state where you send out a real ID doesn’t mean you will automatically receive one. You may need to provide additional documentation, wait for the ID to be received or pay a higher processing fee.
This means you should double-check your ID to comply with the rules. If you’re still unsure, DHS’s brief Online Quiz Helps you determine whether your compliance is correct.
Can I still use my driver’s license to fly in the United States?
As of May 7, passengers will not be allowed to pass through a transportation safety management checkpoint with a driver’s license that is not a true ID. However, while your driver’s license may not be sufficient for domestic air travel through a TSA checkpoint, you can still use a U.S. passport or various TSA-approved proof of identity.
If you don’t upgrade your driver’s license and don’t have a real ID, you can use one of the following:
- US Passport or Passport Card
- DHS Trusted Traveler Card (Global Entry,,,,, relation,,,,, Sentriquickly)
- Permanent Resident Card
- US Department of Defense ID
- Border cross card
- State-issued enhanced driver’s license
- Photo ID issued by federally recognized tribal countries/Indian tribes
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Passports issued by foreign governments
- Canadian Provincial Driver’s License or Indian and Northern Affairs Canadian Card
- Transport worker ID certificate
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- American businessman sailor qualification
Travelers under the age of 18 do not need to provide proof of identity when traveling with companions, which will not change under the True Identity Act.
If I join Precheck or Global Ground, do I need a real ID?
Yes. While your global portal card is a valid form of ID, even if you are joining one of the programs, you will need to bring your real ID (or other compliant photo ID) while traveling. Your TSA Precheck card is not eligible.
My status matches my real ID card. Does this mean my driver’s license is OK?
not necessarily. As we mentioned before, just because your status issues a qualifying ID does not mean that you have received the ID. Check whether you are compliant to confirm your ID.
Actual ID regulations require the state to re-certify its compliance with the bill every three years based on the rolling determined by the DHS.
If I’m under 18, do I need a real ID flight?
Unless you fly alone, not. As mentioned earlier, minors traveling with companions do not need to show a photo ID.
How much does it cost to get a real ID card?
The cost of the actual ID varies from state to state, but it is usually $30. In most states, the actual ID costs the same as a regular driver’s license.
Bottom line
If your driver’s license already meets the ID, you don’t have to worry; these upcoming changes won’t affect you. However, if your license does not meet the standards of the True Identity Act, upgrade it as soon as possible to avoid crowds and long waiting times as the May 7 deadline approaches.
Related readings:
