The actual ID deadline is coming. Here’s what you need to know.

For years, the US government has warned travelers that they will soon need a real ID to board domestic flights only to maintain the postponement of the deadline. But “soon” seems to be real this time.

From May 7, a standard driving license or state identifier will no longer pass the concentration at the airport security points, according to the Ministry of the Internal Security. Passengers should, on the contrary, present a true identity with security enhanced or another approved form of identification such as a passport.

The change, for almost 20 years in production, aims to enhance security by setting a more consistent model for the state -issued documentation, according to the Ministry of Interior.

Here is what you need to know about the coming deadline.

What is a real ID?

A real identifier is a driver’s license issued by the federal status, student’s license or non -driver ID. The actual identifiers are marked with a star – generally gold or black – and vary in appearance by the state or territory.

Any resident of a US state or territory wishing to use the driver’s license or the non-driver’s ID at a TSA checkpoint must be confirmed to be a real ID-contract. Driving licenses that do not have the star are not really identifiers. Some non -compliant identifiers will also have the words “application of federal limits”.

The percentage of Americans who have informed the licenses of their driver to make it a real identity compatible seems to vary widely depending on the state. For example, in Pennsylvania, where there have been reports of long lines in the licenses, it is just over 26 %, the state transport section said. In California, it is just over 55 %.

Why does the government really require IDs?

Hikeys responsible for September 11, 2001, the attacks transferred driving licenses and state identifiers. The government then promoted to tighten national standards for the documentation issued by the state and in 2005, Congress passed the law on true identity.

The practice sets minimal standards for permits and other types of identity cards. The enforcement of the actual identity law will initially begin in 2008, but has repeatedly been delayed for many reasons, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the opposition from the worrying states for privacy.

Do actual IDs replace passports?

No. Normally real identifiers will bring you to domestic flights, but they will not let you cross the international border, including those with Canada and Mexico. Cannot be used for international cruises. You will almost always need a passport for such trips.

A handful of states – Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Washington and Vermond – offer enhanced driving licenses. These licenses, which comply with the actual identity requirements to board domestic flights, also allow travelers to cross the land and maritime border in Canada, Mexico, Bermudes and the Caribbean without a passport.

Improved licenses show an American flag instead of a star. The flag location on the card varies depending on the state.

Enhanced licenses cannot be used instead of a passport if you are traveling internationally and only American citizens can take them. The cost varies depending on the state. In Minnesota, for example, it is an additional $ 15. In New York, it is $ 30 more.

Are there any other IDs that you can use at the airport?

TSA also accepts some other forms of identification at the airport security points. These include valid passports, passport cards, permanent resident cards (also known as green cards) and cards for reliable traveler programs such as Global Entry and Nexus, which allow the United States-Canadian borders quickly transmit.

How do you receive a real ID?

To apply for a real identifier, you will generally need to provide a social security number or proof of non -eligible, confirm your address through documents such as utilities or bank statements and verify your identity and legal status through a handful of additional documents.

Check the licensing website of your state driver to find out how to apply and learn more about the specific documentation you will need.

Taking a real identity is likely to include a personal appointment that can last a little. There are reports of large lines in the licensing offices in various states, including Pennsylvania and Kedaki. New York expands the service hours to selected offices and enhances the number of appointments to meet demand.

In many states, including South Carolina and New York, there is no additional cost to get a real identifier if you already renew your license. But some states charge extra. Pennsylvania, for example, charges a $ 30 one -off fee except for the cost of renewal, the first time you upgrade true identity.

Children and teenagers really need IDs?

TSA does not require those under 18 to show identification for domestic trips. Individual airlines have their own policies about the types of ID minors they are required to carry.

For international trips, children of all ages are required to carry passports.

Will leaflets without real identifiers actually turn around?

The Ministry of Homeland Security warns on its website that travelers should comply since May 7.

However, TSA has general guidance that passengers who do not bring acceptable forms of identification at the airport may be allowed to fly after additional identity verification.

At the end of last year, the TSA proposed a rule to allow a gradual two -day transition to the complete imposition of real identity, referring to delays in the construction of state -owned compatibility with the rules.

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