REAL ID Heading Into 2024

When 2024 arrives, Travelers who use a Driver's License to fly Domestically won't have to worry. A Driver's License will be an Acceptable Form of Identification for Domestic Flights and Entrance to Secure Federal buildings, for another year and around 5 months.

That will change come May 7th, 2025, the Federal REAL ID Deadline. While previously set for May 3rd, 2023, it was moved once again in December 2022, following numerous Pandemic-related Extensions, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Once the New Deadline is reached, anyone 18 years old and above, will be required to present a REAL ID compliant Driver's License or Identification Card to fly Domestically or visit a Federal Facility. Designated by a Star and surrounding Gold Circle, REAL IDs are being issued in all 50 States.

But Not everyone needs a REAL ID. A Valid U.S. Passport is also a compliant REAL ID Document.

If you're traveling Internationally, a REAL ID will Not be an acceptable form of Identification. In that case, you must use a Passport.

REAL IDs must be completed In-Person, and provide Forms of Documentation that prove Identity:

Either a U.S. Birth Certificate or a U.S. Passport, an Employment Authorization document, Permanent Resident Card, or Foreign Passport with an Approved I-94 Form is also acceptable. If you've changed your name, you'll need to provide name change documents. Proof of a Social Security number (SSN). Some examples are: an SSN card, a W-2, or a Pay Stub with your full SSN.

Two Current Residency Documents that List your Full Name. Some examples are: a Utility Bill, Rental Agreement, Deed/Title or a Bank Statement. Account Numbers must be Visible.

Proof of your Signature. Some examples are: a Signed Credit or Debit Card, Canceled Check, or current Out-of-State) ID.

Hard copy Documents are required. Photocopies will Not be accepted.

After filling out a REAL ID Application and providing the Proper Documents, you'll immediately receive a Temporary, Paper REAL ID. In order to Fly, you'll need a Permanent REAL ID, or a U.S. Passport or Passport Card.

A Permanent REAL ID card will be mailed around 15 business days, depended on each State.

The Fee for a REAL ID is the same as it is for a Standard Driver's License or State ID.









NYC Wins When Everyone Can Vote! Michael H. Drucker