Articles Posted in Domestic Flights

by

Starting Wednesday, May 7th, anyone 18 years and older traveling domestically within the United States must have a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver’s license or another accepted form of identification to board a commercial flight.

To learn more about the REAL ID, how to obtain one, and what alternative documents are accepted for travel, keep watching.

Who is Affected

  • Anyone 18 years and older boarding a flight in the United States

Including:

  • Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)
  • Non-immigrant Visa Holders
  • Undocumented immigrants

What is a Real ID

A Real ID is a type of state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced federal security standards established by Congress with the passage of the Real ID Act in 2005. It was created to improve the reliability of photo IDs and to prevent identity fraud.

At a Glance

  • A Real ID is a federally approved form of identification that includes additional security features compared to standard licenses.
  • It is required for boarding domestic commercial flights and contains a Real ID star marking on the top right.

How to Get One

  • Gather Required Documents: You’ll need to provide proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), or foreign passport with valid U.S. visa and approved form I-94), proof of a Social Security number (such as your SSN card or paystub), and proof of your residency (two documents such as a Federal Tax Return, rental or lease agreement).
  • Application Process: With your documents in hand, visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (or the equivalent issuing agency in your state), or check to see if you can complete your application online, and pay the applicable fees to receive a Real ID-compliant card.

Continue reading