REAL ID Update for 2016

Some time ago I wrote about states that were not in compliance with Federal regulations so that their drivers licenses would not be accepted by TSA at airport security. But what about this upcoming year?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on December 20, 2013 a phased enforcement plan for the REAL ID Act (the Act), as passed by Congress, that will implement the Act in a measured, fair, and responsible way. You can check their map for your state's compliance. Just hover your mouse over your state (hint: it might take a couple of tries).

According to DHS, if any changes are needed they will give the public at least 120 days notice.

If you are at all concerned, you might go ahead and get a passport. You never know when you might win that big trip around the world, anyway!

OK to Fly without REALID after January 15th, 2013 (Update)

Here's an update on RealID. It appears that those in New Mexico and other non-compliant states will not have to worry about carrying a passport when traveling in the US as of January 15th (as I previously reported). The federal Department of Homeland Security once again has pushed back the deadline for states to comply with the Real ID Act. So, after Jan. 15, you will still be able to board a commercial airline flight by using a New Mexico driver’s license for identification.

New Mexico is not the only state out of compliance with the RealID Act. There are many more... maybe 20 plus. 

A news release posted Thursday on the Homeland Security website said the agency has determined that 13 states have met the standards in the Real ID Act, but that other states haven’t provided sufficient information for the department to make a determination.

"Beginning January 15, 2013, those states not found to meet the standards will receive a temporary deferment that will allow Federal agencies to continue to accept their licenses and identification cards for boarding commercial aircraft and other official purposes.

DHS’s goal is to implement the REAL ID Act, as required by law, in a measured, fair, and responsible way. In the coming weeks and months, DHS will, in consultation with States and stakeholders, develop a schedule for the phased enforcement of the Act’s statutory prohibitions to ensure that residents of all states are treated in a fair manner. DHS expects to publish a schedule by early fall 2013 and begin implementation at a suitable date thereafter. Until the schedule is implemented, Federal agencies may continue to accept for official purposes driver’s licenses and identity cards issued by all states."

I would recommend that everyone have a passport. It just makes things simpler!

REAL ID Act - Don't be caught without a passport for travel within the U.S.

I live in New Mexico. As of January 15th , I can't use my New Mexico drivers license to pass through the TSA checkpoints for flights within the United States. Heck, I remember when I could use a driver's license to pass into and back from Mexico. But things are changing and many will be caught without a passport when they need one.

The Real ID Act, enacted May 11, 2005, was an Act of Congress that modified U.S. federal law pertaining to security, authentication, and issuance procedures standards for the state driver's licenses and identification (ID) cards, as well as various immigration issues pertaining to terrorism. Of course, many states got extensions to delay implementation. But the deadline is now upon us. And, if you are traveling you had better be aware of the Act and check the facts carefully. Otherwise, you may be turned back at a TSA checkpoint. Imagine missing your daughter's wedding in Hawaii, or that family reunion, or that trip to Florida for a little winter sunshine. Imagine!

According to Homeland Security Newswire, "Airport security screeners are beginning to see driver’s licenses with gold stars, issued by states which have been certified by DHS as compliant with federal REAL ID standards. These states include Indiana, South Dakota, Delaware, Connecticut, Utah, Alabama, Ohio, Florida, and West Virginia." Full article.

So how do you know if YOU will be affected?  You can check this article on the state's implementation status or, better yet, ask your state DMV. For New Mexico residents, this handy slide show will explain what type of ID you can use for travel after January 15th, 2013.

In New Mexico, the issue is all over the news. Pay attention to what your state DMV  press releases, call the AAA or the airport if you plan to travel. As information becomes available, I will attempt to post a list of compliant states here. Until then, check your documents before you travel so you are not unpleasantly surprised.

Map source: US Dept. of Homeland Security

More Information
Real ID Implementation Embraced by 41 States
Will New Mexicans need a passport to fly?