Impending Real ID Deadline: Are We Ready or Is It Just a Mirage?

The federal government has long warned that travelers will need a Real ID or a passport to board aircraft. Now, a decisive deadline is set for May 7 to enforce these requirements.

However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has proposed a rule that would not fully implement this requirement until May 7, 2027. Bill Lamoreaux from the Arizona Department of Transportation emphasizes the importance of early action to avoid a rush as the deadline nears.

To date, Arizona has issued approximately 7.6 million identification cards, which encompass various forms of ID including non-operator IDs for those who don’t drive, such as minors. Yet, 2.35 million of these cards comply with the Real ID standards—only a fraction of the total.

Consequently, around 5.2 million residents lack the required documentation. While not everyone needs a Real ID, especially those not flying commercially, possessing a valid passport is also acceptable. Nevertheless, carrying an additional document can be burdensome for domestic air travelers.

Individuals under 18 are exempt from this requirement. For those seeking a Real ID, a visit to the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) is mandatory, along with submitting various documentation.

Applicants must provide proof of identity, which can be an original or certified birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a passport card. Additionally, two documents proving Arizona residency are required; acceptable options include utility bills, bank statements, or insurance policies. Intriguingly, even junk mail can suffice as proof, provided the name matches.

If the applicant’s name has changed due to marriage or divorce, related documentation is necessary. Furthermore, a Social Security number is essential, though the physical card does not need to be presented.

Upon approval, the new license will feature a star in the upper right corner, indicating it meets enhanced ID regulations. However, a fee of $25 is applicable for this upgraded license, which is valid for only eight years—unlike standard Arizona licenses, which last until the holder’s 65th birthday.

It’s important to note that regular licenses require a new photo every twelve years, while for those over 65, licenses are valid for five years, also necessitating a vision test upon renewal.

Laypersons can book an appointment with the MVD; however, this merely allows them to skip the queue of walk-ins without guaranteed immediate service. The imposition of Real ID requirements stems from post-9/11 national security measures passed by Congress in 2005, aiming to prevent future hijackings.

Initially met with resistance from Arizona lawmakers over concerns of privacy and costs, the state finally moved towards compliance in 2015, after the Department of Homeland Security threatened to impose significant travel restrictions. However, due to COVID-related delays, the current enforcement date remains May 7.

Recent TSA communications suggest a phased approach to enforcement, although the need for compliant IDs remains paramount. Travelers without a Real ID or acceptable identification after the deadline could face significant delays at security checkpoints.