Do You Need Real ID If You Have a Passport?
As the deadline for the Real ID Act approaches, many Americans are left wondering if they need to obtain a Real ID if they already have a passport. The Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The deadline for states to comply with the Real ID Act is October 1, 2020. After this date, individuals will need either a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or another form of acceptable identification, such as a passport, to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities that require identification.
So, what does this mean for individuals who already have a passport? Can a passport be used in place of a Real ID? The short answer is yes, a passport can be used in place of a Real ID for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities. However, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.
First and foremost, not all Americans have passports. According to the U.S. Department of State, only about 42% of Americans have valid passports. This means that the majority of Americans will need to obtain a Real ID if they want to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities after the October 1, 2020 deadline. Additionally, passports are not free – they can cost anywhere from $30 to $165, depending on the type of passport and whether or not expedited processing is needed. In contrast, the cost of a Real ID is typically around $30 or less, depending on the state.
Furthermore, passports are not issued by individual states – they are issued by the federal government. This means that if you lose your passport while traveling, it can be difficult and time-consuming to obtain a replacement. In contrast, if you lose your Real ID, you can simply go to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency to obtain a new one. Additionally, passports are valid for 10 years for adults (5 years for minors), whereas Real IDs must be renewed every 4-8 years, depending on the state.
Another important consideration is that while a passport can be used in place of a Real ID for domestic air travel, it may not be the most convenient option. Passports are typically larger and bulkier than driver’s licenses or identification cards, making them more difficult to carry around on a daily basis. Additionally, passports may not have the same level of acceptance as driver’s licenses or identification cards, especially when it comes to non-flight-related activities such as purchasing alcohol or renting a car.
Despite these considerations, there are some situations where having a passport instead of a Real ID may be advantageous. For example, if you frequently travel internationally, having a passport is a necessity. Additionally, if you live in a state that does not offer Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses or identification cards, having a passport may be your only option for boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities after the October 1, 2020 deadline.
In conclusion, while a passport can be used in place of a Real ID for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. It is important to weigh the cost, convenience, and acceptance of a passport versus a Real ID before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between a passport and a Real ID will depend on your individual circumstances and travel needs.
