Real ID Guide: What is it and how to get it yours
Actual IDs are becoming a national standard for state-issued identification. Don’t wait. Learn how to get yours.
After years of reminders, we have our actual ID requirements.
Starting Wednesday, May 7th, most US adults will need their actual ID to board federally regulated commercial aircraft, access federal facility choices, and enter a nuclear power plant.
A real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification that meets the minimum security standards set by the Real ID Act, established by Congress in 2005, based on the recommendations of the 9/11 committee.
There are a few exceptions.
Travelers can also use US passports, permanent resident resident cards, enhanced tribal cards, foreign government issued passports, and several other forms of identification that TSA has accepted for air travel.
Additionally, five states issue enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs) and enhanced IDs (EIDs). This is accepted by the Department of Homeland Security as an alternative to actual IDs.
Not all licenses or IDs in these states are enhanced by default. Residents can choose either a standard license/ID or an EDL/EID during the application process.
Enhanced driver’s license and enhanced ID can also be used as proof of both identification and citizenship of travel to Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean on land or on sea.
Children under the age of 18 do not need an actual ID for air travel within the country.
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