Recently, there has been a lot of confusion and misinformation circulating about the use of passport cards as a valid form of identification instead of Real ID. Many travelers are wondering if they can use their passport card instead of obtaining a Real ID for domestic flights within the United States.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks and sets security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act requires states to issue Real ID-compliant identification that includes features such as a gold star in the upper right-hand corner.
However, the passport card is also a valid form of identification that can be used for domestic flights within the United States. The passport card is a smaller, less expensive alternative to the traditional passport book and is accepted for travel by air, land, and sea between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
There is a common misconception that a Real ID is required for domestic air travel, but this is not the case. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a variety of forms of identification at airport security checkpoints, including passport cards. In fact, the TSA has a list of acceptable forms of identification that includes passport cards, as well as passport books, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, and trusted traveler program cards such as Global Entry and NEXUS.
So, if you already have a passport card, you can rest assured that you will be able to use it for domestic flights within the United States. It is important to note that while the passport card is a valid form of identification for domestic flights, it may not be accepted for all international travel. For international flights, a traditional passport book is typically required.
In addition to domestic air travel, the passport card can also be used for a variety of other purposes. For example, the passport card can be used as proof of identity and citizenship when applying for a job, opening a bank account, or obtaining a driver’s license. The passport card is a convenient and portable form of identification that can be easily carried in a wallet or purse.
Overall, the passport card is a versatile and valuable form of identification that can be used for a variety of purposes, including domestic air travel within the United States. While a Real ID may be required for certain activities, such as entering federal buildings or military bases, the passport card is a valid and widely accepted form of identification that provides travelers with a convenient and secure way to prove their identity and citizenship.
