Trump has begun another trade war. Here's a timeline of how we got here
Canada's leader laments lost friendship with US in town that sheltered stranded Americans after 9/11
Chinese EV giant BYD's fourth-quarter profit leaps 73%
You're an American in another land? Prepare to talk about the why and how of Trump 2.0
Chalk talk: Star power, top teams and No. 5 seeds headline the women's March Madness Sweet 16
Purdue returns to Sweet 16 with 76-62 win over McNeese in March Madness
The Transportation Security Administration has begun enforcing the REAL ID requirement for domestic air travel in the U.S. from May 7.
This new regulation mandates that travelers aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card—or an acceptable alternative form of identification—to board domestic flights and access certain federal buildings. While the REAL ID aims to bolster national security, many Americans are still without one. However, there are several other forms of ID that travelers can use in the meantime.
According to the TSA, a variety of official documents are still accepted at airport security checkpoints. These include a valid U.S. passport or passport card, DHS Trusted Traveler cards such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST, a U.S. Department of Defense ID (including IDs issued to dependents), and a Permanent Resident Card. Other accepted forms include a Border Crossing Card, a state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License, and a federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID, including Enhanced Tribal Cards.
Additionally, foreign government-issued passports, Canadian provincial driver’s licenses, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada cards, Transportation Worker Identification Credentials, and Merchant Mariner Credentials are all valid forms of identification for domestic travel. These documents must be unexpired and include a photo if applicable.
Travellers arriving at the airport without a REAL ID or any of the TSA-approved alternatives may still be allowed to board their flights—but they can expect extra screening. The TSA will verify such passengers’ identities using publicly available databases and they might ask additional questions. While this process can be successful, it can also be time-consuming and may result in delays or, in rare cases, being denied boarding. Travelers in this situation are strongly encouraged to arrive at the airport well in advance of their departure time.
To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must visit their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and present a set of required documents. These generally include proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or valid U.S. passport), proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or a W-2 form), and two proofs of residency (like utility bills or a lease agreement).
Requirements can vary slightly by state, so it’s advisable to check with a local DMV beforehand. Some states also allow citizens to start the application process online or schedule an appointment to reduce wait times.
