Flying after January 22, 2018?
Be prepared, identification rules are changing on domestic flights.
(Note this information is up-to-date as of 11/10/2017)
Who is affected by this?
Everyone. If you are flying within the United States you will need to be aware of the new rules.
What is changing?
Anyone traveling domestically will need a REAL-ID compliant state-issued driver’s license or ID to pass security and board an airplane, otherwise, alternate forms of identification are needed.
What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a state-issued form of identification that passes certain security standards set by Congress. The purpose of REAL ID is to make our identity documents more consistent and secure.
Do I have a REAL ID?
If your driver’s license or ID card has a gold star in a circle on it you have a REAL-ID compliant driver’s. Most often this is found on the top right. Enhanced driver’s licenses are also REAL-ID compliant.
Do the rules apply to me?
Not if you live in Michigan. Michigan has an extension to October 1, 2020. If you live in another state you can check your state’s compliance deadlines here.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Does this just affect flights?
No. After the deadline, a REAL ID-compliant license or ID will be required for domestic air travel or entering a military base, nuclear power plant and certain federal buildings.
What happens to my Standard License or ID after the deadlines?
Nothing. You can still use your standard driver’s license for driving. Both standard licenses and state ID’s will still be accepted as identification for voting, applying for or receiving Federal benefits, cashing checks, renting vehicles, purchasing alcohol and tobacco, or entering casinos.
What do the different cards look like?
You can see images of a Michigan standard card, a REAL ID-compliant card, and an enhanced card by clicking here.
How do I Apply for a REAL ID?
If you are applying for your first Michigan driver’s license or ID card visit a Secretary of State office and provide the proper forms of identification required.
If you are renewing a Michigan driver’s license or ID card check your renewal notice, it will say whether your card is REAL ID compliant. If your renewal notice says you are compliant your new card will have a star printed on it. If your renewal notice says you are not compliant you will have to visit a Secretary of State office to provide more forms of identification. Read your renewal notice carefully to see what documentation you will need to bring with you. You cannot apply for a REAL ID online or via mail.
What does a REAL ID cost?
In Michigan, if you are up for a standard license or ID card renewal or are applying for your first card, standard driver’s license and ID card fees apply. If you apply for a REAL ID-compliant license or ID outside of your normal renewal cycle a correction fee will be charged.
Do minors need a REAL ID?
TSA doesn’t require children under 18 to provide identification if they are traveling with a companion. The companion will need acceptable identification.
What if I have a passport card?
TSA considers passport cards an acceptable form of identification. After the deadlines, you can use this instead of a REAL-ID for domestic travel. Click here for a list of other acceptable forms of identification.
For the latest information visit the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID Act website.