Many travelers across the United States are wondering whether they need to obtain a Real ID in order to fly within the country. The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks and establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
While the Real ID Act went into effect in 2005, enforcement of the requirements was repeatedly delayed until October 1, 2021. This means that starting in October, travelers will need a Real ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights within the United States.
Each state has been rolling out their own processes for issuing Real ID identification cards. In Illinois, for example, residents must provide a variety of documents to prove their identity, social security number, and residency in order to obtain a Real ID. The process can be completed at select Secretary of State facilities.
In Nevada, residents must also provide a number of documents, including a birth certificate or valid passport, social security card, and two proofs of residency. The deadline to request a Real ID in Nevada is fast approaching, so residents are encouraged to start the process as soon as possible.
It is important for travelers to check the requirements in their own state and start the process early to ensure they are able to obtain a Real ID before the October 1, 2021 deadline. Failure to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification could result in being denied boarding on a domestic flight.