*As the May 7 deadline for REAL ID enforcement nears, many travelers may be wondering what it means for their upcoming plans.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission, sets federal standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, FOX 8 reports. Starting May 7, U.S. travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant card, or another acceptable form of identification, to fly domestically or enter certain federal facilities. These cards are marked with a star at the top and are not valid for international travel, including border crossings or cruises. For those purposes, a passport is still required.
However, residents of Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont can use an enhanced driver’s license instead. These licenses don’t have the REAL ID star but are still considered valid under federal guidelines.
If you don’t plan to fly or visit federal facilities often, you might not need to rush. But without a REAL ID, or one of several other acceptable IDs, you could be delayed or even turned away at airport security. Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, Global Entry card, permanent resident card, Department of Defense ID, or a tribal-issued photo ID, among others.
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For those traveling with children, the TSA does not require minors to carry identification when flying with an adult who has the proper credentials.
To obtain a REAL ID, visit your state’s DMV website for a checklist. Generally, you’ll need proof of your full legal name, birth date, Social Security number, two forms of address verification, and proof of legal status. Requirements may vary slightly by state, so confirming ahead of time is essential.
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