REAL ID required for air travel in U.S. now in effect
(NBC, KYMA/KECY) - Major changes are coming for travelers across the country as REAL ID-compliant forms of identification are now needed at airports.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, starting Wednesday, certain standard driver's licenses and other identification cards will no longer meet federal standards for people seeking to fly within the United States, and for access to some federal facilities.
A REAL ID is a security-enhanced, state-issued driver's license, learner's permit or non-driver identification card that is offered by all 50 states.
REAL ID-compliant identification cards are marked with a star on the top right corner. The star is usually black or gold and may vary depending on the state.
According to TSA's Acting Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl, REAL ID compliance is a law that passed 20 years ago focused on identity and document integrity and it does not apply to minors.
"So anyone over the age of 18, this applies to and again, sufficient alternatives include a military ID card, a passport, a trusted traveler card, like a global entry card, for example. So all those things are sufficient. But I also would just encourage folks, if you do not have a Real ID, please do engage with your local DMV."
Adam Stahl, Acting Deputy Administrator, TSA
Stahl also noted if people present identification that isn't REAL ID-compliant at checkpoints you will be okay, but be advised that it may take some additional time for screening.
"We do urge folks to plan accordingly and leave a little extra time when traveling to the airport," Stahl added.
According to the TSA's website, it may take up to three weeks to get your real id in the mail and the agency "will not accept the temporary paper card given at the DMV."
