Effective October 1st! Have You Gotten Your Real ID Yet?

Starting October 1, 2021, regular driver's licenses can no longer be used for domestic air travel!

All U.S. residents will need REAL ID-compliant identification (such as a REAL ID driver's license, passport, etc.) to pass through airport security. If you've visited the DMV recently, you've likely seen information about REAL ID. Today, iTalkBB explains what REAL ID is all about.

What is REAL ID?

Following the 9/11 attacks, the U.S. government implemented policies to strengthen homeland security. In 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act, establishing minimum security standards for state-issued identification cards to enhance security and reliability, and prevent terrorist attacks.

As of now, all U.S. jurisdictions—including all 50 states, DC, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam—issue REAL ID-compliant identification. By October 2020, over 100 million REAL ID-compliant documents had been issued.

Why Do You Need REAL ID?

You might wonder: REAL ID looks similar to standard IDs—is it really necessary? While they may appear alike, REAL ID serves critical additional purposes.

The Department of Homeland Security announced that starting October 1, 2021, federal agencies—including the TSA—will no longer accept non-REAL ID driver's licenses for identification. This means standard licenses won't be valid for air travel.

REAL ID is also required to access certain federal facilities, nuclear power plants, or cruise ships. While non-REAL ID licenses remain valid for driving, they won't suffice for these purposes.

What documents can you use if you don't have a REAL ID? According to the TSA, acceptable alternatives include:

1. REAL ID
2. Valid foreign passport
3. U.S. passport
4. Green Card
5. U.S. military ID
6. EAD card

Full list: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

How to Identify a REAL ID

Most REAL IDs are driver's licenses. Many states, like Texas, began issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses years ago.

If your license was issued or renewed after October 10, 2016, check whether it's already REAL ID-compliant before visiting the DMV.

How to Check if Your License is REAL ID-Compliant

Look for a star marking in the upper right corner. Licenses without this marking will state they're not valid for federal identification.

How to Apply for REAL ID

Applying for or upgrading to a REAL ID is straightforward: schedule an appointment with your local DMV, gather required documents, and complete the process in person.

Generally, you'll need:
1. Valid ID (passport, Green Card, I-20, etc.)
2. Valid visa or immigration documents
3. Social Security Number
4. Two proofs of address (students may use documents from school, bank, or landlord)

Requirements vary by state. Check local DMV guidelines or visit: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.

iTalkBB reminds you: REAL ID isn't mandatory for driving or purchasing alcohol. However, after October 1, you'll need a passport or other approved ID for air travel. Getting REAL ID now avoids future hassles.

Note: DMV appointments are scarce during the pandemic—don't delay!

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