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Starting May 7, Americans will need a Real ID-compliant identification to pass through U.S. airport security checkpoints for domestic flights. The Real ID Act, aiming to establish uniform security standards for government-issued photo IDs, prohibits agencies from accepting non-compliant forms of identification. This measure seeks to bolster security in commercial aviation by reducing the incidence of false documentation used for boarding.
To identify if an ID is Real ID-compliant, travelers should look for a star on the ID's top right corner or check for markings that indicate federal non-compliance. Those without a compliant state ID may hesitate to obtain one due to associated fees and long wait times at the DMV.
However, several alternative forms of ID can be used in lieu of a state-issued ID, including Global Entry cards, which satisfy Real ID requirements. "Global Entry cards meet all the requirements for a Real ID since they are DHS-trusted traveler cards," according to the announcement.
