Don’t Have a Real ID? You Can Still Fly With a License, for Now

Real ID is finally here. After numerous delays, the updated driver’s license requirement for air travel within the United States went into effect on May 7. Well, kind of. Right before the Real ID law became official, US Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem claimed that those attempting to fly without the updated license would still be able to board planes. “If it's not compliant, they may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step, but people will be allowed to fly," Noem said. It’s currently unclear what this extra security step entails or how long it may add to your wait time. So, if you’re planning a big vacation later this year that involves air travel and you aren’t able to get a Real ID right away, travel with your passport as proof of identity instead. Carrying a valid passport or a current Real ID driver’s license will ensure your travel experience is as streamlined as possible. This regulatory change is two decades in the making. The new identification standard ... Read full article.