The Department of Homeland Security announced the implementation of its REAL ID enforcement measures at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints nationwide. Travelers with a noncompliant ID will now face additional screening measures.

Key Points:

  • DHS reports that 81% of travelers are already REAL ID compliant and “ensure[s] there is no impact to wait times or TSA screening applications, especially for those passengers who are prepared with their REAL ID, passport or other acceptable form of ID.”
  • The DHS REAL ID page has state-specific details to confirm if certain identification is compliant.
  • Valid U.S. passport books and cards are one of several accepted alternatives to REAL ID and can be used for domestic air travel. A list of identification acceptable at a TSA checkpoint (subject to change without notice) can be found here.
  • Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their noncompliance and may be directed to a separate area to receive additional screening.

Additional Information: DHS noted that “TSA expects the number of passengers obtaining REAL IDs to steadily increase and will continue with additional screening measures for those without a REAL ID until it is no longer considered a security vulnerability.”

Find more summer travel reminders here.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice Group.

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