***Please note that this blog has been edited for July 2021 – as the requirement has been postponed to May 2023*** Show You may have heard talk about something called “REAL ID.” This blog will go through some frequently asked questions about N.C. REAL ID and will explain how you can be prepared for the changes coming to traveler identification requirements. These new requirements will start being enforced on May 3, 2023. The federal government is giving everyone until May 3, 2023 to get their REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards. Beginning May 3, 2023, every air traveler will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, or other acceptable form of identification, to fly within the United States. The REAL ID Act is a federal law.If you like to use your driver’s license as your main identification to get through TSA security checkpoints at the airport, it’s crucial to make sure it’ll be REAL ID-compliant and ready to fly starting May 3, 2023. To get flyers ready for this significant transition, we’re providing a resource for our guests, employees and the public to get the latest information about REAL ID and its fast-approaching changes. It’s found on the Alaska Airlines website at alaskaair.com/REALID. Here are some key things to know:
“We always want our guests to have the best possible travel experience with us and at the airport,” says Wayne Newton, vice president of airport operations and customer service at Alaska Airlines. “We want to do everything we can to help spread the word about the upcoming changes with federal laws taking effect, and how our customers can get prepared.” Click on the state where you live to find out more on how to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license: Alabama FAQRefresh my memory. What exactly is the REAL ID Act? Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 in an effort to strengthen identification rules at airports. The act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses. Under the law, state driver licenses and ID cards have to be issued only to people who can prove they are legally living in the United States. If state licenses don’t meet the standards, then federal agencies – such as the TSA – will not accept them. So what happens in May 2023 if I show up at the airport with my standard driver license as my only ID? You’ll be turned away and not allowed to go through a TSA checkpoint if you don’t have another form of approved identification. And you’ll miss your flight. So when do the rules actually change? Currently, the DHS has indicated the enforcement of the REAL ID Act starts on May 3, 2023. At that point, standard driver licenses issued by some states – such as Washington – will not be accepted by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) at U.S. airports. TSA will accept enhanced driver licenses, since they have established your identity and U.S. citizenship. Am I required to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license? No, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your travel needs. You can use a current U.S. passport or a U.S. military ID at the airport to get through TSA security after May 3, 2023, just like you can right now. Just remember to bring it. Having a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license is convenient for many of us because it’s something we always carry with us. Other acceptable forms of identification is found here. Can I fly in the US with just my license?Beginning May 3, 2023, every traveler must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or other acceptable forms of identification, such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID, to fly within the U.S. Review the complete list of acceptable identification.
Do I need a star on my license to fly American Airlines?Starting May 3, 2023, you'll need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other accepted ID, like a valid passport or U.S. military ID, to fly within the U.S. REAL ID-compliant cards generally have a star at the top. If you're unsure, contact your state driver's license agency on how to get a REAL ID-compliant card.
Do I need a REAL ID to fly in 2022 california?No. A REAL ID driver's license or identification card is optional. A REAL ID is needed if: You wish to continue to use your driver's license or identification card to board domestic flights within the U.S.
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