After years of reminders, the REAL ID requirement is upon us, well most of us.
Starting this Wednesday, May 7, most U.S. adults will need a REAL ID to board federally regulated commercial aircraft, access select federal facilities, and enter nuclear power plants.
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets the minimum security standards set by the federal government in the REAL ID Act, which was enacted by Congress in 2005, upon the 9/11 Commission's recommendation.
Travelers may also use a U.S. passport, permanent resident card, Enhanced Tribal Card, foreign-government issued passport, and several other forms of identification accepted by the TSA for air travel.
Additionally, five states issue an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) and Enhanced ID (EID), which the Department of Homeland Security accepts as REAL ID alternatives.
Not every license or ID in these states is enhanced by default. Residents can choose between a standard license/ID or EDL/EID during their application process.
Enhanced Driver's Licenses and Enhanced IDs can also be used as proof of both identification and citizenship for travel to Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean by land or sea.
Children under age 18 do not need a REAL ID for domestic air travel.
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