Understanding the Real ID Act: What You Need to Know

If you have travel plans that involve flying, make sure your ID is the real deal. After years of delay, the Real ID Act will be enforced. Starting May 7, only state-issued driver’s licenses and state-issued ID cards that comply with the REAL ID requirements will be accepted at TSA checkpoints and for official federal government purposes. Here is everything you need to know about the requirements.

What is a Real ID?

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 in response to the terrorist attacks on 9/11, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The act establishes minimum security standards for driver’s license and state ID distribution and production. It prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet those requirements.

The new identification incorporates fraud prevention technology to ensure people are who they claim to be. This is an essential step in enhancing national security and preventing identity theft.

History of the Real ID Act

The new ID requirements were initially slated to be implemented in 2008. However, the date was repeatedly pushed back due to the logistics of hundreds of millions of people flying every year, as well as the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Transportation Security Administration. The repeated delays have given states and citizens ample time to prepare for the changes.

What happens when the REAL ID Act enforcement starts?

Federal Agencies, such as the Department of Homeland Security and TSA, may only accept cards that comply with the new enforcement of the REAL ID Act, including TSA at airport security checkpoints. This means that if you plan to fly or access federal facilities, you will need to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID.

What happens if I decide NOT to obtain a REAL ID?

Those without the upgraded ID can still use their old ID cards as long as they are not expired. However, access to federal facilities might be denied, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Domestic airline passengers must bring a secondary form of identification, such as a passport, to pass through airport security checkpoints.

International travelers will still need a valid passport, according to the Department of Homeland Security. It is essential to note that a REAL ID is not required for international travel, but a valid passport is mandatory.

What about REAL ID cards in Texas?

Texas started issuing driver’s licenses and state IDs that meet the REAL ID requirements on October 10, 2016, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The Texas REAL ID card is marked with a star inside a gold circle located in the upper right corner of the card.

If your driver’s license or state ID has that emblem, you are good to go, and no further action is required. You can continue to use your current ID for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.

If your card expires after May 7, 2025, and you want a REAL ID card, you can request a duplicate driver’s license or Texas ID in person or online at texas.gov. This will ensure that you have a compliant ID for future travel and access to federal facilities.

How to get a REAL ID

To get a REAL ID, you will need to provide documentation that proves your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency. You can find a list of acceptable documents on the Texas Department of Public Safety website. Once you have gathered the required documents, you can apply for a REAL ID in person or online.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Real ID Act is an essential step in enhancing national security and preventing identity theft. With the enforcement date set for May 7, it is crucial that you understand the requirements and take the necessary steps to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID. If you have any questions or concerns, you can visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website or consult with a representative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the purpose of the Real ID Act?

A: The purpose of the Real ID Act is to enhance national security and prevent identity theft by establishing minimum security standards for driver’s license and state ID distribution and production.

Q: Do I need a REAL ID to fly domestically?

A: Yes, starting May 7, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID to fly domestically. If you do not have a REAL ID, you can use a valid passport or other accepted forms of identification.

Q: Can I use my current ID to access federal facilities?

A: If your current ID is not REAL ID-compliant, you may be denied access to federal facilities. It is recommended that you obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID to ensure access to federal facilities.

Q: How do I get a REAL ID in Texas?

A: To get a REAL ID in Texas, you will need to provide documentation that proves your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency. You can apply for a REAL ID in person or online at texas.gov.

Q: What documents do I need to provide to get a REAL ID?

A: You will need to provide documentation that proves your identity, Social Security number, and Texas residency. A list of acceptable documents can be found on the Texas Department of Public Safety website.