As the deadline for the REAL ID Act approaches, many Americans are wondering if they can use their REAL ID as a passport for domestic travel. The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks and aims to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
The act requires that all state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards must meet certain federal standards in order to be accepted for official purposes, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. In order to comply with the REAL ID Act, states must require proof of identity, proof of social security number, and proof of residency from individuals applying for driver’s licenses or identification cards.
While the REAL ID Act does establish minimum security standards for driver’s licenses and identification cards, it does not replace the need for a passport for travel outside of the United States. A REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card can be used for domestic travel, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building, but it cannot be used as a passport for international travel.
In order to use a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card for domestic travel, travelers must present their REAL ID to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents at airport security checkpoints. The REAL ID will be scanned and verified as a valid form of identification before the traveler is allowed to proceed through security.
It is important to note that while a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card can be used for domestic travel, it is not a substitute for a passport for international travel. In order to travel outside of the United States, individuals must still have a valid passport issued by the U.S. Department of State.
The deadline for states to comply with the REAL ID Act was extended several times, with the final deadline set for October 1, 2021. After this date, individuals will not be able to use their non-compliant driver’s licenses or identification cards for domestic travel. It is important for travelers to check if their state is compliant with the REAL ID Act and to obtain a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card if necessary.
In conclusion, a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card can be used as a form of identification for domestic travel, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. However, it is not a substitute for a passport for international travel. Travelers should ensure that they have the appropriate identification for their travel needs and plan accordingly.
