For those who plan to travel in the next year, it’s time to catch you up to speed on everything you need to know!
You may be aware of the new European travel requirement, ETIAS, that will be necessary to have in order to enter many European countries by 2025, but you will also need to secure what’s known as a REAL ID to fly domestically. So what really is a REAL ID, how do you get one and why do you need it? We’ll get into everything below:
What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a federally accepted form of identification for domestic air travel, and to enter nuclear power plants and certain federal facilities. It’s often recognizable by its star in the top right corner.
Why do you need a REAL ID?
REAL IDs are a security standard for state-issued driver’s licenses by the Real ID Act of 2005 to strengthen national security, while setting a minimum standard for proving identification across each state in the U.S.
When will you need a REAL ID?
REAL IDs will be required to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities by May 7, 2025.
How do you get a REAL ID?
Basic requirements to obtain a REAL ID include your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of address of principal residence and lawful status.
However, certain states may implement their own additional requirements, so be sure to check online with the driver’s licensing agency website of your state before going for an in-person visit. More than 105 million REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses have been issued in the country according to data from 2020.
How much does a REAL ID cost?
Prices vary by state. For example, New York State does not charge an extra fee for a REAL ID, just standard transaction fees apply. However, states like California and New Jersey charge $35 for a REAL ID.
Will any alternative IDs be accepted?
According to The Department of Homeland Security, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) will be accepted as a REAL ID alternative if issued from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont. Another REAL ID-compliant document includes a passport. See other acceptable forms of identification here.
What is the difference between a regular driver’s license & a REAL ID?
Those with a regular driver’s license will still be able to drive in the country when REAL IDs go into effect. However, without a REAL ID or REAL ID-compliant document, one will not be able to fly domestically.
What else should I know?
Find more info on the REAL ID here.