What Happens in WA If You Don’t Get a REAL ID Before the Deadline?

The Deadline for REAL ID Compliance to Fly Aboard Domestic Flights is Approaching.

May 7th is the date you'll need to present proper identification to get past TSA  and to enter federal buldings. What is Real ID? According to the United States Department of Homeland Security:

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses and identification cards.”  The Act and implementing regulations establish minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibit federal agencies from accepting for certain official purposes noncompliant driver’s licenses and identification cards.

READ MORE: WA Travelers Warned - Steer Clear of These 2 Destinations

Will a Washington Enhanced Drivers License Pass for Real ID?

According to TSA.gov, acceptable identification at the TSA checkpoint include:

• State-issued Enhanced Driver's License
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

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What If You Arrive at the Airport Without Acceptable ID?

You may still be allowed to fly. TSA will have you complete an identity verification process. If you'r identity is confirmed, you'll be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint. You may have to undergo additional screening.

***TSA recommends people without acceptable identification to arrive at least 3-hours in advance of their flight time.***