New ID Requirements for Flying

Some upcoming travel changes are quickly approaching that will affect everyone that flies! Beginning on October 1st, 2020, federal regulations will require a new form of identification for boarding domestic flights called a REAL ID. Although there is plenty of time ahead before that change is made, we want to ensure that travelers who rely on us to get them where they’re going remain as informed as possible.

That’s why we’re having representatives from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles on hand to answer any and all questions about REAL ID.

 REAL ID INFORMATION SESSION

DATE: Thursday, April 4th
TIME:   12pm-5pm *Come by anytime during these hours
WHERE: SHD Airline Terminal

Prior to the event, we also wanted to field some frequently asked questions about what this regulatory change is going to mean for travelers in Virginia.

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID is a new federally standardized method of issuing identification. In the state of Virginia, newly issued driver’s licenses and identifications from the DMV offer you the option of being REAL ID compliant.

After October 1, 2020, all Americans will be required to show REAL ID compliant credentials before boarding a domestic flight or entering certain federal buildings. An unexpired US Passport will also allow residents to board a domestic flight.

How do I know if my current Virginia’s Driver’s Licenses and ID cards are REAL Compliant?

You can check to see if your current ID is compliant by looking for a small black star in the upper right-hand corner. If the star is there, you’re in the air.

How do I apply for a REAL ID compliant license or ID card?

Receiving your REAL ID compliant identification is similar to the current driver’s license/ID Card application process. Simply go to your local DMV to apply in person and be sure to present physical documentation of:

  • Identity (e.g. an unexpired US passport of US birth certificate)
  • Legal Presence (e.g. an unexpired US passport of US birth certificate)
  • Social Security Number (must include the full number; e.g. Social Security card or a W-2 form)
  • Residency (two proofs are required and each must include your current residential street address; e.g. current driver’s license, voter registration card, utility bills, mortgage statements or rental lease agreement)
  • Proof of any name changes (e.g. marriage certificates)

This seems like a lot. Where can I find more information?

If you are unable to make our REAL ID event on April 4th from 12pm-5pm in the SHD Airline Terminal, we encourage you to check out dmvNOW.com/REALID for more information, including the entire list of documents that will be accepted in order to issue a REAL ID. DMV also has a really great interactive Document Guide to assist you in choosing exactly what documents you will personally bring to apply.

It is important to us that you’re able to travel as smoothly as possible through our airport. We want to do everything we can to arm you with information about this change in federal policy and hope that you will accept our invitation to find out more in person during our REAL ID information session on April 4th!