Early in the morning of February 6, 2020, I arrived at the TSA line at TF Green Airport in Rhode Island and heard time after time the TSA staff advising people who were using their license or state issued ID as identification to fly that their current license/ ID would not be sufficient effective 10/1/20. They would need REAL ID or passport to fly.
The TSA desks were covered with notices and there were signs along the TSA security lines as well. TSA is doing all they can to make sure that everyone is advised ahead of time as they do not want people coming on 10/1/20 or later and getting turned away because the passenger does not have sufficient ID.
What is REAL ID, you ask?
Here is the information from the TSA website: “Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the federal government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act and implementing regulations establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibit federal agencies, like TSA, from accepting licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards for official purposes, such as getting through the airport security checkpoint to board a plane.”
How do I know if I have a REAL ID?
Check for the star. REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card. If you’re not sure, contact your state driver’s license agency on how to obtain a REAL ID compliant card.” TSA website. If you live in Ohio, it will look a little different. It will be a black cut out star.
Keep in mind that If you have a valid passport, you can use that in lieu of REAL ID.
Here is the TSA website for more information & FAQs. https://www.tsa.gov/real-id
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