One month left until REAL ID is required to fly

An example of a REAL ID. (From: Tennessee Department of Safety)

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- We are one month away from a major change at airports and some federal buildings.

The Real ID Act of 2005 was passed in the wake of 9-11 as a security measure.

After years of delays, partially due to the Covid-19 pandemic, you will need to upgrade your identification before May 7th, or else you may not get to take to the skies.

All travelers will be required to have a Real ID in order to be allowed to fly beginning in one month.

They will also need them to enter certain federal buildings.

These identifications are marked by having a star on the top right of the card.

You can go to either a Drivers Services Center or County Clerk’s office to make sure you’re in compliance.

When you go to get your ID, you have to bring a couple of items with you.

First, you must have proof of U-S citizenship.

This can be something like a birth certificate or passport.

Next, you must provide proof of your Social Security Number, such as a SSN card.

Finally, you must provide two proofs of Tennessee residency.

This can be a range of items including a bank statement or a utility bill.

If you don’t get a Real ID, there are not a lot of alternatives to take flight.

April Cameron, the President and CEO of the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, said, “There are alternatives. You can always bring your passport or a military ID. Other than that, you will be required to have that gold star on your driver’s license.”

There are already signs around the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport about the upcoming deadline here with REAL ID. For example, right in front of the American Airlines counter, there is areminder telling passengers starting in one month from now, they will need to have a REAL ID.

The airport has not had to make logistical changes on their ends, saying that the process of going through TSA should not take longer.

They just want passengers to be ready for the change.

Cameron said, “So it’s really important for everyone to get that scheduled and get your Real ID.”

You are asked to set up an appointment to get your Real ID.