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The big change affecting US air travel

Lynn Brown
Alamy A man stops to be checked by a security guard at an airport terminal (Credit: Alamy)Alamy
Travellers should prepare for longer airport screening lines as REAL IDs roll out across the US (Credit: Alamy)

Starting tomorrow, many American citizens and residents will need a new form of ID to board domestic flights.

This week, the US government is set to implement a major change to its air travel policy that has been nearly 20 years in the making.

Starting 7 May, US citizens and residents will no longer be able to use a standard driver's license or state ID to board domestic flights. Instead, travellers will need to present a Real ID, passport or other acceptable form of identification at airport security checkpoints.

Here's what you need to know.

What is a Real ID?

The new Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued license or non-driver ID that meets the security standards set forth by the 2005 Real ID Act. The new IDs will be recognisable by the star or flag located in the top right corner.

"The Real ID requirement bolsters safety by making fraudulent IDs harder to forge, thwarting criminals and terrorists," Adam Stahl, TSA Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Administrator explained in a statement. "TSA will implement REAL ID effectively and efficiently, continuing to ensure the safety and security of passengers while also working to minimise operational disruptions at airports."

Who needs a Real ID?

All American travellers over the age of 18 will be required to present a Real ID or another TSA-acceptable form of identification, such as a passport or permanent resident card, in order to board domestic flights anywhere in the US and its territories.

Even travellers with TSA PreCheck, are not exempt from these requirements, however, children under the age of 18 are still allowed to fly domestically without identification.

Alamy As of 7 May US travellers will be required to show a REAL ID for all domestic flights (Credit: Alamy)Alamy
As of 7 May US travellers will be required to show a REAL ID for all domestic flights (Credit: Alamy)

How do travellers get a Real ID?

To obtain a Real ID, travellers should use this map and click on their home state or territory to determine how to apply for what specific documentation they'll need. Most travellers will generally need to make an appointment at their local DMV and bring in documents that prove their identity and lawful status. These may include proof of identity and citizenship via a passport, birth certificate or green card; proof of address in the form of utility bills or bank statements; and a social security card.

Applicants will be issued temporary identification while the Real ID is processed and mailed, which can take several weeks. The cost to obtain the new ID varies from state to state, so it’s recommended to check with the local Department of Motor Vehicles.

What happens if US travellers try to board a domestic flight without a Real ID?

American travellers without a Real ID, passport or other acceptable form of identification will be subject to additional screening and may be turned away and not allowed to board their flights. According to their website, without a Real ID: "The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity."

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While other non-passport forms of identification may be presented in lieu of a Real ID, such as enhanced ID or a DHS trusted traveller card such as Global Entry. However, the website also warns that this list is subject to change, so travellers should be sure to double check with TSA to confirm before arriving at the airport.

Why does the government now require Real IDs?

Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, a 9/11 Commission recommended the US Congress pass the Real ID Act in order to establish more stringent security standards for driver's licenses and other identification documents. However, the COVID 19 pandemic and opposition from state governments, led to several postponements of the Real ID roll out over the last twenty years since the Act was originally passed.

How this new rule will affect all passengers – not just US citizens

It's not only American travellers who will be affected by these new requirements. The change is expected to create longer lines at airport security checkpoints. Travellers are encouraged to arrive early for flights in order to accommodate potential longer wait times and additional screenings, ideally two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights as recommended by airlines.

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