
U.S. Travel is working with its membership, other industry stakeholders and government partners to ensure travelers are ready for the October 2021 deadline.
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On October 1, 2021, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will implement the last phase of REAL ID enforcement that will require Americans to present REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or another acceptable form of ID to go through airport security.
As of March 2020, an estimated 83 million Americans do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative identification (e.g. passport), and a majority of Americans (39%) are unaware of the October 1, 2021 deadline for enforcement. This could mean millions of passengers are turned away on October 1, 2021 for not having the necessary documents to fly.
U.S. Travel will continue working with its industry partners and the administration to educate the public, and will advocate for policy changes that allow for other forms of identification to be used in place of a REAL ID at airport security checkpoints, including biometric screening and Trusted Traveler Programs.
Find answers to frequently asked questions from TSA or learn more about the REAL ID Act from DHS. If you are interested in learning about REAL ID in your state, click here.