REAL ID Gets Real in May
Things are about to get real with REAL ID.
Starting May 7, travelers who want to board domestic flights without a REAL ID could face significant delays and enhanced screening at airport security checkpoints.
“They may still be allowed to fly, but their screening experience will take longer,” said Daniel Velez, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regional spokesman. “The TSA officer may ask them to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information like their name and current address, as well as other information to confirm their identity. They also will undergo enhanced screening.”
What is REAL ID?
The new requirements - passed by Congress in 2005 - resulted from the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. REAL ID will be required to board federally regulated commercial aircraft, access certain federal facilities and enter nuclear power plants. It is designed to prevent fraud and counterfeiting and expedite the screening process.
TSA has published a final rule that offers some flexibility in beginning enforcement. However, the May 7 REAL ID deadline will not be extended. Instead, the rule will enable TSA to adopt a phased approach, and they are currently working on how to implement it.
“You can use a passport if you don’t have REAL ID yet,” added Velez. “It will more than likely be the most popular alternative for most people who do not have a REAL ID.”
Public uptake for REAL ID has been somewhat sluggish. Currently, 30 states have 59% or less REAL IDs as a percentage of all state IDs. In South Carolina, 60.8% of all cards issued are REAL IDs. In North Carolina, it is approximately 50%.
Do I need one? It depends.
While REAL ID is optional in North Carolina and South Carolina, if you opt out, you will need to provide additional identification and paperwork to board a domestic commercial flight or visit select federal facilities and military installations.
You do not need a REAL ID to drive, vote, apply for federal benefits, enter a federal facility that does not require an ID (like a post office), or participate in federal law enforcement proceedings, such as serving on a grand jury. Anyone under 18 traveling with an adult will not need a REAL ID, but the adult companion will need one.
How do I get a REAL ID?
The easiest way to get a REAL ID is to visit your state’s driver licensing agency and provide the necessary documentation, which can vary but typically includes your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of address for your primary residence, lawful status and sometimes evidence of any name change.
You can check if your current driver’s license, enhanced driver’s license or identification card is already REAL ID compliant by looking for a star or the word “enhanced” in the top right corner.
Fees differ by state, but they tend to be comparable to those for a standard license or renewal.
For more information on REAL ID, visit: