Understanding Alternative Identification for Air Travel: REAL ID and Beyond

As the REAL ID deadline approaches, Americans are rushing to their local DMVs to obtain their compliant identification. By May 7, all domestic air travelers over 18 must have proper ID to pass through U.S. airport security. Failing to secure such ID could disrupt their travel plans. This mandate follows the 2005 REAL ID Act, aimed at establishing “minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards,” explained by the Department of Homeland Security.

However, REAL ID isn’t the only ID option available. For those who haven’t updated their licenses, several other forms of identification are also recognized at airports. We’ll guide you through these alternatives so you can travel without fuss.

For instance, some individuals might own an Enhanced ID. These state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses not only serve as proof of identity but also confirm U.S. citizenship at the border when traveling by vehicle. According to the DHS, five states currently issue Enhanced IDs: Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Vermont, and Washington. They are particularly useful for entering Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean by land.

Although not every Enhanced ID displays the star marking seen on REAL IDs, they are still compliant for airport security use. Enhanced IDs are identifiable by an image of the U.S. flag and the word “enhanced” across the top.

The Transportation Security Administration lists the following as valid REAL ID alternatives: 1. State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID) 2. U.S. passport 3. U.S. passport card 4. DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) 5. U.S. Department of Defense ID, including dependent IDs 6. Permanent resident card 7. Border crossing card 8. Federally recognized Tribal Nation ID, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs) 9. HSPD-12 PIV card 10. Foreign government-issued passport 11. Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card 12. Transportation worker identification credential 13. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766) 14. U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential 15. Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Additionally, a passport book or card remains a viable substitute for a REAL ID for those traveling domestically, per the TSA. For international journeys, having a passport remains essential.