We are not going to judge you for not having had time to renew your passport and get a Real ID, especially when for months, there’s been no other topic of conversation. Do not worry, there are forgetful people everywhere.
But of course, what happens now if you don’t have your Real ID and you need to travel? Well, even if it’s something that’s “hidden,” if your passport is expired, you could still fly within the country. It doesn’t appear on the TSA’s website, but the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that up to two years after expiration, they could still be used at airports instead of the Real ID. Though we remind you it’s not the most recommended option, only if you like to live life on hard mode.
What is the Real ID?
The Real ID is the identification with the highest security standards that the country has had. It comes from the Real ID Act, created after the 9/11 attacks, and its goal is to prevent identity fraud while also strengthening controls in airports and federal buildings.
It became mandatory last May 7 and is required to enter federal buildings and to travel by plane within the country.
Valid for up to 2 more years… but only in the U.S.
Even though the Real ID is, as we said, mandatory, the TSA will allow you to use a (U.S.) passport up to two years after its expiration date. But it will only be valid within the national territory. You will not be able to travel abroad or return if you travel outside the country with an expired passport.
Also, remember that many countries require the passport to have at least six months of validity to allow entry, so this tip is only useful if you’re moving around within the United States.
What happens if you arrive without a Real ID or passport?
If you don’t have a valid ID, the TSA may carry out a manual verification process, in which you’ll have to provide data such as your full name and address. If they manage to confirm your identity, you’ll be allowed to board the flight, although you’ll have to go through stricter security checks… We don’t recommend this because you could even miss your flight while they try to identify you…
How to know if your license is a Real ID
Real ID licenses are easy to recognize because they include a gold or black star in the top right corner. If your document doesn’t have it, it does not meet the DHS requirements. Very easy.
TSA-approved alternatives
Besides the passport, the TSA accepts other documents as proof of identity:
- Trusted traveller program cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- Department of Defense credentials
- Canadian driver’s licenses
- Employment Authorization Cards (I-766)
- Foreign passports
- Veteran health ID cards (VHIC)
- Merchant mariner credentials
If you don’t have any…
If you don’t have any valid ID, the ideal thing is to request a new passport as soon as possible or directly apply for a Real ID at your nearest DMV (in case you’re a U.S. citizen). The process may take between 4 and 6 weeks, so be prepared and plan ahead!!
Even if the new rules may seem excessive, every cloud has a silver lining, and now, even if it’s not common knowledge, you could travel with your expired passport for two years. Needless to say, our recommendation is to go renew your passport as soon as possible so you don’t have any issues when it’s time to take your flight. Don’t be lazy and book your appointment now!