The start of a new year is a great time to get organized, set new goals and plan out your year ahead. As you do so, we recommend taking some time to ensure you’re familiar with the new REAL ID compliance deadline. Starting October 1, 2021, all air travelers are required to present a valid passport, military ID or REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to board a flight within the United States. If you are not prepared for REAL ID compliance, you may not be able to get to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint or fly.
What is REAL ID?
REAL ID compliance is designed to make commercial aviation safer and validate the identity of anyone boarding an airplane. The Department of Homeland Security is working alongside states to ensure that REAL ID compliance is taking effect and that citizens are being notified of new requirements. This has been a tricky process amidst the pandemic, however. In fact, the initial deadline of October 1, 2020 was backed up an entire year in order to give citizens more time to safely comply.
Obtaining your Real ID is actually a bit of a process now, so we definitely don’t recommend waiting until the last minute to get the ball rolling. You can’t just drive down to your nearest MVA branch at your convenience to get started. Instead, you’ll have to schedule an appointment to bring in all of your REAL ID documentation in order to receive the new card.
Am I Already Compliant?
There are currently five different symbols used to denote a REAL ID on a driver’s license or REAL ID:
- Gold star
- Black star
- Gold circle with a star cutout
- Black circle with a star cutout
- Gold grizzly bear with a star cutout
If none of these are present on your ID, it’s time to schedule an appointment to make the switch! In the meantime, be sure to bring an alternate form of valid identification when preparing to fly domestically.
Help with REAL ID Compliance
If you are unsure of how to ensure your compliance with new REAL ID laws or have other concerns about your passport or immigration status, you need a skilled lawyer. Consult with an experienced attorney like those of the Law Office of Elizabeth A. Lawrence today by clicking here or calling (410) 986-0088.