A major travel change is coming; are you ready? If you have been planning on taking a flight from the 7th of May 2025 and beyond, you need to consider certain details concerning your driver’s license. Take note, this only applies when flying commercially, according to the Transport Security Administration (TSA). A standard driver’s license will no longer be valid to pass through airport security for domestic flights; you will now need a REAL ID. Therefore, if you are 18 years and older, you should ensure that you are REAL ID-compliant. If you are not sure if you own one, just look at the top right corner for a bear + star symbol.
The REAL ID Act came into operation in January 2018, which is when the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) began issuing them, including identification cards. Additionally, a state-issued identification card or another acceptable form of ID is also accepted for domestic travel. If you are residing in the United States, act fast and ensure you have this ID to prevent travel frustrations that could delay your travel schedule.
REAL ID for California and Ohio: The difference
There is a difference in design between the REAL IDs from California and Ohio. Although this rule applies to the entire United States, it is important that one does not get confused. As mentioned above, the one REAL ID described from the state of California has a golden bear and star at the top right, while the Ohio one has a green mark and a star at the top right. However, this is different for every state.
A REAL ID, what it is and why it is crucial
According to NBC4i, a REAL ID is a small identification card that meets U.S. security standards and can be utilised as a standard ID or driver’s license. Issued by Congress in 2005, it came into effect after the 9/11 unforeseen occurrence that destroyed many people in America due to terrorist attacks. Now, it is used as a requirement for individuals who want to travel domestically. This is for strict security reasons.
The only difference with the REAL ID is the symbol on the top right-hand corner, and these symbols or designs depend on the state that you are in; however, the ID is mandatory for every United States of America resident above the age of seventeen. TSA encourages everyone to obtain this card because the travelling process will be very difficult. Security measures are very tight; you might find yourself not travelling at all.
TSA Federal Security Director at San Diego International Airport Kathleen Connon said,
“Now is the time for anyone age 18 years and older to take an inventory of what forms of photo identification you have that are accepted by TSA once REAL ID enforcement begins. With less than two months to go before the deadline, now is the time to make a plan for what you will use to verify your identity with TSA when traveling.”
How to verify whether your license complies with the Real ID Act
Here is what you need, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV):
- ONE identity document that shows your date of birth and true full name, such as a valid U.S. passport, certified copy of U.S. birth certificate, valid Permanent Resident Card, etc.
- Two proofs of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement)
- Provide Social Security number on REAL ID application (exceptions may apply)
The objective of the REAL ID is to increase the accuracy of driver’s licenses to tighten security to prevent fraudulent, terrorists and other criminals from entering the states with bad intentions and to prevent the use of fake identities, which is a very common aspect in the nation. May seem far; however, that is not an excuse to make and delay the application process. Check if your license meets the requirements; if not, you can also visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to enhance your understanding so that you can obtain your REAL ID and have an effortless domestic travel experience.