Soon all U.S. airlines will require REAL ID-compliant ID to board a domestic flight.
Transportation Security Administration spokesperson Jessica Mayle the requirement starts May 7. "Every air traveler 18 years of age and older must have a REAL ID-compliant ID. TSA is working to avoid checkpoint delays by encouraging all travelers to get their Real IDs now," said Mayle.
Travelers without one could be delayed.
The federal REAL ID Act of 2005, passed in response to the 9/11 terror attacks, requires higher standards for identification starting this year. The requirements apply to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories.
Upgrading a standard license or ID to a REAL ID is free in Michigan if done during the normal renewal period. Otherwise, a card correction fee of $9 for a driver’s license or $10 for an ID is charged.
When applying for a REAL ID, you will need to bring:
- Your driver’s license or ID
- Your Social Security Number
- Your certified birth certificate
- Your valid, U.S. passport (or an approved citizenship or legal presence document)
Because it can take weeks to receive it in the mail, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson encouraged those needing a REAL ID to apply soon.
If you have a star on your ID you are already compliant.
Circle with star design: Standard REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs will display a star in a gold circle in the upper right corner.
Michigan silhouette with star design: Standard REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs will display a star in a silhouette of Michigan in the upper right corner.
Enhanced licenses and IDs are automatically REAL ID-compliant, regardless of whether they display the star.
Michiganders in need of a REAL ID can obtain one by going to Michigan.gov/REALID to schedule an appointment. The system will guide them through documents required.
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said more than 73% of people with a Michigan driver’s license or ID have already upgraded to a REAL ID.
