Beginning on May 7, the Transportation Security Administration will require REAL IDs for adult travelers flying domestically within the United States, marking the end of a regulation journey that took 20 years to complete.
In just over two weeks, the TSA will stop accepting state-issued identifications that lack enhanced standards. The 2005 law enacted the Sept. 11, 2001 commission's recommendation to approve stricter federal requirements for issuing identification cards, although enforcement has been postponed multiple times.
"Every air traveler 18 years of age and older must have a REAL ID-compliant ID, which is a state-issued driver's license, state-issued identification card, or another acceptable form of ID, such as a U.S. passport," by next month the TSA said in a statement. "If you do not have a REAL ID by May 7, your air travel may be delayed."
With enhanced identification becoming mandatory next month, here is what you need to know about getting one.
According to DHS, Real ID-compliant cards will have a star marking on the "top portion of the card."
In states like California, the star is placed on an outline of a bear, while in other states, a simple golden star is added to Real IDs.
TSA-approved alternatives include:
According to DHS, the best way to find out "exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID" is to visit your state's driver's licensing agency website. But at a minimum, you will need to provide documentation with your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, proof of address of principal residence and lawful status.
Individual states may have additional requirements, so contact your state's driver's licensing agency online or in person for additional information or assistance.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.