Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas recently announced the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is extending the REAL ID full enforcement date by 19 months, from October 1, 2021 to May 3, 2023, due to circumstances resulting from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has significantly impacted states’ ability to issue REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards, with many driver’s licensing agencies still operating at limited capacity. This was the 2nd time the date was changed due to disruptions caused by coronavirus, as the initial deadline set was October 1, 2020.
Here is what you should know about REAL ID and the new requirements to fly in the United States beginning on May 3, 2023.
What is REAL ID?
REAL ID is a new set of security standards and requirements for all state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards in the U.S. The purpose of the REAL ID Act is to ensure that all 50 states utilize a more secure form of driver’s licenses and identification cards and make identity documents more consistent across the United States.
Beginning May 3, 2023, a REAL ID-compliant identification will be required to fly in the U.S. Other acceptable forms of identification include a valid passport, a U.S. military identification, and a state-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL).
Who is required to Have REAL ID?
Every adult over 18 is required to have a REAL ID-compliant identification to fly in the United States. You will not be permitted to board a federally regulated commercial aircraft if your identity cannot be verified.
Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling with an adult, however, the adult companion will need to provide a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
REAL ID is also required to access Federal facilities and to enter nuclear power plants.
How do I know if my ID is Compliant?
You can tell if your identification is REAL ID-compliant if it is marked with a star. The star is located on the upper portion of your ID card. Nearly all states are currently compliant with the federal government’s requirements for issuing REAL ID cards, so if you have renewed your driver’s license recently, your ID is likely compliant. Contact your local driver’s licensing agency if you are not sure if your ID is compliant.
Certain sates such as New York, Vermont, Minnesota and Michigan are issuing enhanced drivers licenses. These are accepted as a form of REAL ID.
ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTATION TO FLY MAY 3, 2023
If you don’t have your REAL ID, the following types of documentation are also acceptable. Valid U.S. Passport, U.S. Passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI & FAST,) Foreign government issues passport, Canadian provincal driver’s license, U.S. Department of Defense ID, permanent resident card, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Service Employment Authorization (I-766) or U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential.
Also read: How To Get Your Passport Renewed Fast & Passports Online Appointment System and Passport Agencies Reopening Status
How do I get a REAL ID?
Your local state driver’s license office can issue your REAL ID. You will be required to go in person and present the required forms of identification in order to receive your REAL ID. Check with your state driver’s license agency to see what documentation is required for issuing your REAL ID. Fees vary by state, ranging from $20 to $80. For further information about REAL ID, visit https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
COVID TESTING: UNITED STATES
ImmunitiRx: In-home COVID tests.
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services: Resources of community-based testing site for COVID-19 by state.
U.S. Testing Site Locator: This is a 3rd party website that uses information sourced from local governments and healthcare providers. It also offers the ability to filter by same day test results.
REAL ID is closely related to airport security requirements. Our advisors’ guide to TSA PreCheck vs. CLEAR explains how these programs work together for the smoothest possible airport experience.
