Domestic Flight Security Changes Under REAL ID
United States introduces REAL ID starting on Wednesday. Understanding its implications for domestic travel.
hostname: STEVE INSKEEP, HOST
Starting May 7, the rules for domestic flights within the United States are changing. The Department of Homeland Security will require travelers on domestic flights to adopt REAL ID security standards. The ID will also be necessary to enter secure federal facilities, like a military base or a nuclear power plant. Here's the lowdown on what you need to know, straight from Clint Henderson, a travel editor at The Points Guy.
Q: So, Clint, I have my California driver's license on me right now. I remember getting a REAL ID years ago, but I'm not sure if I did anything special to get it. So, what makes this REAL ID different than the one I had before?
A: For California, your ID should have a golden bear in the upper right-hand corner with a star. This new REAL ID demands a more extensive security screening process, aimed at unifying standards for every state ID. After the 9/11 attacks, it was determined that some states had lax requirements, and the hijackers exploited this with fake credentials[1]. This new ID aims to prevent such incidents by requiring proof of a Social Security number, a birth certificate, and other backup documents[2].
Q: Alright. So, if I don't have a REAL ID, but I need to travel, what do I need to bring?
A: You're in luck, because airports will offer a two-year grace period. During this time, airports can subject travelers to additional screening instead of requiring a REAL ID[3]. You could still be turned away, but systems should be in place to let you proceed with slightly more scrutiny, assuming your chosen identification is REAL ID-compliant or an alternative accepted form. Acceptable alternatives include a passport or a passport card, as well as several other federal (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, FAST, SENTRI, permanent resident card, U.S. Department of Defense ID, border-crossing card, enhanced driver's licenses)[3][4].
Q: Who exactly is eligible for the REAL ID?
A: If you're about to get a driver's license or renew your state ID, you're covered[5].
Q: Is it smarter to go to a smaller airport if I have this option?
A: Absolutely. Smaller airports may deal with fewer passengers, which could make proceedings smoother when REAL ID is fully enforced[5].
When speaking with Henderson at the airport, he mentioned that TSA agents seemed prepared but uninterested in discussing their readiness for REAL ID changes. Henderson wishes them luck and remains curious about its widespread implementation on May 7, 2025.
- Starting May 7, if you have a California driver's license, you should check for a golden bear in the upper right-hand corner with a star to confirm it is a REAL ID.
- If you do not have a REAL ID and need to travel, during the two-year grace period, you can still provide alternative accepted forms like a passport, Global Entry, or a permanent resident card.
- After the 9/11 attacks, the REAL ID was created to prevent hijackers from exploiting lax requirements and using fake credentials to pass security checks.
- In the upcoming REAL ID changes for domestic flights, smaller airports may offer smoother proceedings due to dealing with fewer passengers.
