Beginning in May, all domestic air travelers will be required to present "REAL ID” identifications, typically a state-issued ID that has gold star in the upper-right hand corner signifying that the ID has met the "minimum security standards" set by The REAL ID Act of 2005.
In May, anyone over the age of 18 who plans to board an aircraft domestically or access certain federal facilities will need to check if their state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant.
How to Get a REAL ID Card
Chances are, many passengers may already be in possession of a state-issued ID that has the REAL ID seal. But unfortunately, REAL IDs are not just handed out through license renewal (if only it were that easy). Instead, because of the higher security standards, there is typically a separate process to obtain a REAL ID card.
While every state’s requirements are different, most require REAL ID applicants to present documents proving their full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of residency and proof of legal immigration status.
The younger one is, the higher the likelihood they already have a REAL ID card. Many states began handing out REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses to anyone who got their license for the first time from around 2012-2013 and later. Chances are good anyone born around 1996 or later already has a REAL ID driver’s license. Anyone born prior will need to contact their local DMV to schedule an appointment to get a REAL ID state-issued ID.
Despite the stricter guidelines, REAL IDs are not substitutes or replacements for the TSA screening process, and the TSA still recommends that all travelers arrive two hours prior to departure.
Potential Delayed Enforcements
For those who might have been around since the original REAL ID law was passed in 2005, the “enforcement date” of these laws might seem like a moving target. Enforcement dates for REAL IDs have been announced intermittently over the years, with the most recent prior enforcement date being October 2020 and now in May 2024. However, a proposed extension from the TSA may push the enforcement date into 2027. So, while there is a chance the deadline could be extended, travelers should still go through the process of acquiring a REAL ID.
Alternatives to REAL ID Cards
There are some alternatives to a REAL ID available. This list includes but is not limited to a DHS Trusted Traveler Card, Enhanced Driver’s License, U.S. Department of Defense ID or a U.S. Passport or passport card, all of which can be used to prove identity while flying in the same way a REAL ID can. However, these documents are often harder to procure than REAL ID cards and can sometimes cost more money.
Takeaways for Meeting Planners
Meeting and event planners should encourage attendees of any upcoming events that require domestic air travel to acquire a REAL ID as soon as possible. Meeting planners can send out reminders in their “know before you go” communications and stress the importance of having REAL IDs for a smooth travel experience.
REAL ID requirements also present security benefits for planners, providing confirmation that any attendee that had to travel by air to an event has up-to-date identification documents and is an American citizen of legal status.
