Is Passport Card Real ID?
With the rise of security measures in airports and government buildings, the Real ID Act has become a hot topic of conversation among travelers and citizens alike. Many individuals are left wondering whether their passport card qualifies as a Real ID. In this article, we will explore the details of the Real ID Act, what it means for travelers, and whether a passport card can be used in place of a Real ID.
What is the Real ID Act?
The Real ID Act is a federal law that was passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The law establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, in an effort to prevent identity theft and fraud. States are required to verify the identity of applicants for driver’s licenses and ID cards, as well as conduct background checks on employees who issue these documents. The Real ID Act also sets guidelines for the design and format of these documents.
The Department of Homeland Security has been working with states to implement the Real ID Act, with deadlines for compliance set for October 1, 2020. After this date, individuals will no longer be able to use their state-issued driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.
Can a Passport Card be Used as a Real ID?
One question that many individuals have is whether their passport card can be used in place of a Real ID. The answer is both yes and no. A passport card is a federally-issued identification document that can be used for travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It is more compact and convenient than a traditional passport book, making it a popular choice for frequent travelers.
However, a passport card does not meet the requirements of the Real ID Act. While it is a valid form of identification for international travel, it does not comply with the minimum security standards established by the Act for domestic travel. Therefore, individuals who only have a passport card will need to provide an alternative form of identification, such as a state-issued driver’s license or ID card, in order to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities after October 1, 2020.
Obtaining a Real ID
For individuals who do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card, obtaining one is a relatively straightforward process. To apply for a Real ID, individuals will need to visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and provide documentation to verify their identity, Social Security number, and residency. Acceptable documents may include a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
Once the necessary documentation has been submitted, individuals will be issued a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card. This document will feature a gold star in the upper right corner, indicating that it meets the security standards established by the Real ID Act. Individuals can then use their Real ID to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities without issue.
Implications for Travelers
With the deadline for Real ID compliance fast approaching, it is important for travelers to be aware of the implications of the Act. After October 1, 2020, individuals who do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card will be unable to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities using just their state-issued driver’s license or ID card.
For individuals who do not have a Real ID, obtaining one before the deadline is crucial to avoid any disruptions in travel plans. While a passport card is a valid form of identification for international travel, it cannot be used in place of a Real ID for domestic travel. Therefore, individuals who only have a passport card will need to provide an alternative form of identification, such as a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card, in order to comply with the Act.
In conclusion, while a passport card is a convenient form of identification for international travel, it is not a Real ID-compliant document. To comply with the Real ID Act and avoid any disruptions in domestic travel plans, individuals will need to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card before the October 1, 2020 deadline. Failure to do so may result in individuals being unable to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities using just their state-issued driver’s license or ID card.
