(Nexstar) – In less than a month, anyone trying to fly domestically in the US needs a new form of identification: the actual ID. But what happens if I don’t have an actual ID by the deadline of May 7th?
First of all, don’t panic. You may already have an identification card that is based on your actual ID, or another form of identification card that allows you to board the plane.
Here’s what you need to know about flying with and without an actual ID ahead of the May deadline:
What is an actual ID?
Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005 in light of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, establishing the national minimum requirements for state driver’s licenses and ID cards. The state must request at least two forms of proof of legal name, date of birth, social security number, legal residence, and address before issuing your driver’s license or ID card.
This created a state identification card that is based on the actual ID.
Actual ID: What is it and why is it necessary in May?
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), these IDs are required to travel domestically, to visit certain federal facilities and enter nuclear power plants.
What does your actual ID look like?
Many states have issued real IDs for years. That means you may already have one.
Simply put, if you have a star on your driver’s license or State ID card, you’re already following the actual ID guidelines. The star may look different based on your condition. It’s a black or gold, star, star cutout, or bear cutout star if you live in California. For example, this sample Kansas driver’s license has a golden circle with white stars cut out.
This undated photo provided by the Kansas Department of Revenue is intended to comply with the new Kansas driver’s license design with federal identification requirements for airport security purposes. (Kansas Department of Revenue via AP)
How do I get the actual ID?
For most Americans, getting your actual ID should be relatively easy. At the very least, you must provide a full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, proof of two addresses of your primary residence, and a document showing your legal status.
Four Documents – Help you meet all of these requirements, including birth certificates and social security cards (or in some cases only a number) and bills and wage stubs. However, depending on the situation, you may need different documents or additional documents.
Do you still need an actual ID? Here’s what you need to know
Ultimately, we recommend checking with your local DMV to determine which documents are eligible and determining the amount of time it takes for your actual ID to become available. If you have any additional questions about your actual ID, please visit the TSA website, the DHS website, or contact your local DMV.
Do you need an actual ID?
Really, it depends on you and it depends on your situation.
The actual ID is optional. You don’t need an actual ID to apply for federal benefits such as driving, voting, or Social Security, or to enter a federal facility that otherwise does not require an ID (such as a post office), go to a hospital, or “participate in law enforcement procedures or investigations” like a ju-degree judge.
If you are planning to fly domestically, we recommend an actual ID. They cannot be used to cross to Mexico or Canada. You will also need a passport and associated visa for international travel.
Can TSA stop you for marijuana in your luggage?
If you don’t have an actual ID and are planning to depart domestic flights after the May 7th deadline, don’t panic. You can board your flight using a different approved identification format. The TSA has several lists on its website, including passports or passport cards, state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses (4 state issues), photo IDs issued by federally recognized tribal nations/indian tribes, or veteran health identification cards.
The TSA notes that even if they arrive at the airport without a valid identification form, they may be able to fly by completing the identification process with TSA officers.
Children under the age of 18 do not need to provide identification while flying in the US
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