If you have flown recently you may have noticed signs presented at the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) checkpoint informing travelers of upcoming changes to the ID requirements when flying. It is important to know what these new requirements mean for you and how they may affect your upcoming air travel. Here’s what passengers need to know about the new Real ID.
REAL ID: WHAT IT MEANS FOR COMMERCIAL AIR TRAVELERS
Beginning October 1, 2020, it will be mandatory that air travelers flying within the United States present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport or military ID. The same will apply to anyone who wants to enter a federal facility or military base. By the time this is implemented in 2020, all states will be required to comply with the new standard. While some states began issuing compliant licenses a few years ago, others have just begun, so you will want to check your ID before flying without a passport. It is also important to note that the Real ID is not a replacement for a passport. Passengers who are flying internationally will still need to present a passport at the TSA checkpoint.
What Is Real ID and Why is it Required?
The Real ID Act, which was created as a result of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, was passed by Congress in 2005; it will be fully enforced across all 50 states beginning October 2020. The security requirements of the Real ID Act will enhance and improve commercial aviation security by prohibiting federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards from those that do not meet these standards. Anyone entering a federal facility (including airports) must present a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. The technology that the identification cards present are an additional level of security that is harder for forgers to replicate.
How will I know if my ID meets the standards? – Check for the star!
If you’re worried that your identification may not be REAL ID compliant, check for the star located in the upper portion of the card. West Virginia’s compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards have a small gold star in the upper right corner.
To get the REAL ID gold star, West Virginia residents will have to appear at their local DMV in person with the required documents. There is a ten-dollar surcharge in addition to standard fees to get the new license. A standard license without the gold star will not be a valid option to enter the TSA checkpoint after October 1, 2020.
To find more information on how to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license in West Virginia, you can visit the West Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website.
If you find that you still have questions concerning the new ID requirements you can contact us by phone or send an email to info@yeagerairport.com.
Remember to #FlyCRW!
