Skip to content
Get REAL ID Ready! Banner Image

Get REAL ID Ready!

Avatar photo
by Rhoda Venture
Travel

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005. It was to go into full effect in October of 2020.  Then we hit a bump in the road… well, let’s be honest.  A global pandemic collapsed the road and swallowed it whole!

Now travel is making a comeback and REAL ID is back on the radar.

As of May 3, 2023, EVERY air traveler 18 years or older MUST have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.

For all the procrastinators out there, it’s time to get REAL ID ready!

Related Reading:  DHS Announces Extension of REAL ID Full Enforcement Deadline

Photo attributed to Wikimedia

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID is the federal act requiring minimum security standards for state-issued identifications (like driver’s licenses). It prohibits federal agencies from accepting ID that doesn’t meet these standards for official purposes.

Purposes include boarding federally regulated aircraft, accessing federal facilities like military bases or federal courthouses, or entering nuclear power plants. REAL ID is intended to be a consistent safety measure for our national security.

 

How can I tell if I have a REAL ID?

 

According to the Department of Homeland Security, all REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of the following marks on the top of the card

Examples of REAL ID markings

If you’re ID doesn’t have one of these marks, it’s not a REAL ID!

Is a REAL ID the same as a passport?

REAL ID and passports are NOT the same. If you are traveling internationally, including Canada, Mexico, or cruise travel, you still must have a passport. If you are traveling domestically, a REAL ID or a passport is acceptable.

Does my student group need REAL ID to travel?

Students under the age of 18 do not need identification to fly in the U.S. when traveling with a companion. Students 18 and older will need a REAL ID or other form of acceptable identification.

Get REAL ID Ready

Is my state issuing REAL ID?

As of September 5, 2019, all 50 states and territories were on track to issue REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs. These will now be required on May 3, 2023.

How do I get a REAL ID?

Each state may require slightly different documents at its driver’s licensing centers so check the website before going in person. Minimum requirements are full legal name, date of birth, social security number, 2 proofs of address, and lawful status.

How much does a REAL ID cost?

Fees for a REAL ID vary by state. For example, in Pennsylvania, the cost is $30 plus the cost of license renewal. In Virginia, a REAL ID is $10 plus the renewal. Check with your state’s driver’s licensing center for rates prior to applying.

Get REAL ID ready

What if I don’t get a REAL ID by May 3, 2023?

If you don’t have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID by May 3, 2023, you will NOT be allowed beyond the TSA security checkpoint.

The TSA WILL accept U.S. passport, U.S. military ID, enhanced drivers’ licenses from MI, MN, NY, VT, and WA, and DHS trusted travel cards such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST.

It’s Time to Get REAL ID Ready

Yes, 15 years and a pandemic have passed in the blink of an eye (ahem). It’s time to get REAL ID ready. If you have travel plans that include a domestic flight after May 3, 2023, check this one off your list today!

Related Reading:  5 Tips to Plan A Student Trip

Why Kaleidoscope Adventures?

As a leader in the student travel industry for 30+ years, Kaleidoscope Adventures exceeds expectations for student and performance group travel.

We’ll work with you to plan an exceptional travel experience and provide impeccable customer service from start to finish

Learn More

Related Articles

Education TripPerformance TripUncategorized

Ultimate How-To Guide for International High School Travel

Avatar photo
by Rhoda Venture
Education TripPerformance TripUncategorized

5 Powerful Reasons to Plan Your Performance Trip to Niagara Falls

Avatar photo
by Rhoda Venture
Education TripPerformance TripUncategorized

Uncover the History of Halloween in Ancient Ireland

Avatar photo
by Rhoda Venture