Did you know that it is becoming more commonplace to travel domestically with your
passport? Why? Because of the Real ID Act. Here's some of the key things you need to know:
1. Every U.S. citizen needs it - Yep, it became a law as a result of the 9/11 commission, to
create a standard method for acceptable identification across the nation.
2. How do you know if you're compliant - Your driver's license or state id will have a star on
the front of your id, typically near the top right. If you don't have the star, you are not
compliant.
3. How do you become compliant - Your state will advise you on all the documents you need
to turn in. I believe when I did mine, these documents included my social security card and
documents stating my residence (mortgage and utility bill). This is just an idea, but your state
will give you full list of acceptable items to prove your identity. Additionally, you can scan the
Real ID website for more details.
4. Get it done soon - Due to the pandemic, the expiration date to get this done has been
extended to May 7, 2025. If you do not get it done, and do not have another acceptable form of id, such as a passport, you will not be allowed to travel by air in the United States.
I think most of you are probably compliant. But remember to check for the star on your state-
issued ID. If you are not, I'd go ahead and move forward with getting this done sooner than
later, and as safely as possible. You don't want to be one of the stragglers waiting till the last
minute.
