CARBONDALE, Ill (WSIL) � After years of delays and extensions, the federal REAL ID deadline is officially here.
That means starting today, a standard driver’s license is no longer enough to board a domestic flight in the U.S. Travelers will now need a REAL ID, passport, or another federally accepted form of identification to get through TSA checkpoints.
At local DMVs across the region, residents say the process of upgrading has been relatively smooth, as long as you come prepared.
“I would definitely say do your research before you get here, so you can save yourself some time,� said David Ostos of Murphysboro. “But if you have everything, know what you need, it’s not too bad.�
Ostos said the line moved quickly, but there was still a decent amount of paperwork involved.
To get a REAL ID, you’ll need:
Proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or valid passport)
Your Social Security number
Two documents showing your current address
Ostos says the upgrade is about more than just flying, it’s about staying up to date and being accountable for valid identification. “It’ll keep people on their toes when it comes to their ID,� he said. “Even with coming back here, making sure everything’s valid... even with your vehicles.�
Kevin Hensold of Makanda agrees, calling the experience a sign of progress. “This is democracy manifest,� he said after receiving a temporary paper ID. “They gave me a paper copy that’s valid until they send the card.�
Ostos says he waited until the last minute simply because they hadn’t felt the urgency until now. “I had heard about it, but never took action on it,� he says.
Officials say preparation is the most important step. Residents are encouraged to visit their state’s DMV website to make sure they have the correct documents before heading in.
If you haven’t made the switch yet, you still can, but don’t wait too long. Without a compliant ID, you won’t be allowed through airport security for domestic travel.
