Beginning January 22, 2018, air travellers in the United States must show identification that complies with the document security requirements of the REAL ID Act. If you use a state-issued driver’s license or identification card when travelling domestically:
- The state of issuance must meet REAL ID requirements or have received an extension; and you may use your state-issued identification to board a U.S. domestic flight.
- You must present an alternative form of identification, such as a valid passport or other acceptable documentation, to board a U.S. domestic flight, if your state is under review.
Other acceptable forms of identification
If your state has not met REAL ID requirements or received an extension, the Transportation Security Administration will accept the following documents, among others:
- An unexpired U.S. or foreign passport;
- A DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST);
- A USCIS Employment Authorization Document (EAD);
- A U.S. lawful permanent resident card (green card); or
- An enhanced driver’s license (EDL) (even if your state is not otherwise compliant with REAL ID).
Looking ahead
By October 1, 2020, all U.S. states will be required to issue REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and state identification documents. All U.S. domestic air travelers will be required to use a REAL ID-compliant document by that deadline.
Fragomen is closely following this subject and will issue further client alerts as developments occur.
Source:Â Cartus