Travelers Will Need “REAL ID” Beginning October 1, 2020

Effective October 1, 2020, individuals who wish to board commercial aircrafts or enter federal facilities will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, ID card or acceptable alternative such as a U.S. passport.

According to a recently issued FAQ by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card is one that was “issued by a REAL ID compliant state in accordance with the REAL ID security standards (meaning the license or card must include the REAL ID compliant star marking).”

The documentation required to obtain a REAL ID will vary by state, but individuals will need to present, at a minimum, documentation showing their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security Number, two proofs of address of principal residence and proof of lawful status. States may also impose additional requirements on applicants who wish to obtain a REAL ID. Per DHS, “Travelers who do not present a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative beginning October 1, 2020 will not be permitted through the security checkpoint.”