Last week I began my message with the following reminder:
~ The Real ID Act deadline for States to meet minimum ID standards is scheduled to begin May 3, 2023. Now is the time to make sure your ID is compliant with the new regulations. A compliant ID will be required to board domestic flights.
However, this past Monday, the Department of Homeland Security delayed the roll out once again. The new date is May 7, 2025.
That said, the next time you are up for a drivers license renewal please do your self a favor and jump through the extra hoops to make sure you secure a Real ID.
You may be asking, “What is a REAL ID and why do I need one?”
The federal Government passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 basically requiring a minimum security standard for state-issued IDs such as a driver’s license. The enforcement date has been pushed back repeatedly over the years to give the States time to put procedures into place.
Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.
So, now that you know you’ll need one to fly, your next question is probably “How do I get one?”
I’m happy to report that the process is quite simple in Virginia, albeit a bit cumbersome. You’ll need a combination of documents: one proof of identity, one proof of legal presence, two proofs of Virginia residency, one proof of your social security number and your current driver’s license. Personally, the combination of my current Passport, voter registration card, current license and my social security card were enough to fill all of the requirements. Check the DMV website for your state to obtain the complete list.
While with the latest delay you don’t need to rush out and get one in the next 5 months, eventually you will need a Real ID to fly domestically.