A lot has happened this year, right? But the thing that has blown our minds the most has been the Real ID Act finally coming into effect, which was about time, by the way. And even though it seems like just another change, for millions of people it has been chaos, because many do not know that to get an ID license (a driver’s license) you need one key and mandatory piece of information, just like you cannot get on a plane without this document.
The TSA has prepared a guide for the most forgetful explaining which documents are valid for flying and which ones are left out of this system (which some still have not gotten used to). Now they specify that without a verified Social Security Number, there is no Real ID. No exceptions, no nuances.
The requirement
Real ID always aimed to be a stricter standard to know who gets on each flight or who enters federal buildings, remember that it was proposed in 2005 after many debates on how to implement greater security after the 9/11 attacks. From those debates Real ID was born, and it can be processed at all DMVs in the country, but only by providing the necessary information, of course, they are not going to give you the license for free.
What documents do I need?
Besides the physical Social Security card, they accept W-2 forms, SSA-1099 or even a paystub where the Social Security number clearly appears, any way you have to show that you are indeed the person who is going to get the identification.
And what if I only want a regular license?
Keep in mind that standard licenses are not valid for flying, and they still depend on each state (meaning you will have to comply with whatever they require in that state).
How do I fly if I do not have Real ID?
The TSA has an option B, although we already tell you that to avoid problems, the best thing is to request a Real ID as soon as you can (you are months late…). But they have prepared a list of alternative documents that will continue to be valid for a while:
- United States passport
- “Trusted traveler” cards
- Department of Defense identifications
- Permanent resident cards
- Foreign passports
- Enhanced licenses from some states
Do minors need Real ID to fly?
No, minors under 18 are not required to have it, although each airline may ask for additional documentation to verify identity or relationship. But in principle, they are exempt.
Why is the government tightening all this?
As we told you earlier, this idea comes after September 11 and its goal was always to strengthen security in buildings and airplanes, it has been delayed for years but the time has come to act and truly reinforce security when it comes to verifying travelers.
And if you wonder why the SSN is so important, it is because it connects identity, work history, tax records, regularity in the country… It allows confirming who you are without room for doubt.
Who is most affected by this change?
- People who have never had an SSN
- Migrants with incomplete documents or inconsistencies
- Temporary residents
- Citizens with problems in their documentation history
All of this can lead to delays, endless lines at the DMVs and, in some cases, the inability to obtain Real ID until their situation is resolved.
Remember that if you do not present the correct documentation, you could lose access to domestic flights, certain federal services and even, in some states, the possibility of having a car.
Accepted IDs
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- DHS Trusted Traveler Card
- U.S. Department of Defense ID (including dependents)
- HSPD-12 PIV Card
- Permanent Resident Card
- Border Crossing Card
- Federally recognized tribal photo ID
- Foreign passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indigenous Affairs card
- TWIC (Transportation Worker ID)
- Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
In conclusion…
Real ID or SSN. And hurry up, you are late!