Real ID Rules Take Flight

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Starting today, if you plan to fly, your regular driver’s license may not be enough. 

A long-delayed federal requirement is now in effect.

The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in response to 9/11, is finally being enforced. 

As of today, travelers must have a Real ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings. 

You will know if it is a Real ID if there is a star in the top right corner of your license. 

We spoke to Mark Howell, TSA Regional Spokesperson, about what passengers will be required to bring. Here is what he had told us:

“Real ID enforcement today, May 7 and we want passengers to have a real ID, compliant form of ID or another acceptable form (passport). If you do not have one, they’re going to have to do some additional screening.”

After several extensions, especially during the pandemic, this is now a hard deadline. 

Signs at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport have been warning travelers, including reminders near the check-in counters for each airline. 

When asked if paper IDs would be accepted, Mark Howell stated:

“So, a paper form of ID will not be accepted. You’ll need to have another form of photo ID, or you may have to go through those additional identity verification steps. Make sure that you are bringing your photo ID and anything else you can help us to help with your identity verification.”

You can upgrade your license at a Driver Services Center or your local County Clerk’s office. Just be sure to bring the right documents. 

You’ll need proof of U.S. citizenship, like a birth certificate or passport, proof of your Social Security number, and two documents showing your Tennessee address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. 

Airport officials say they don’t expect too bad of delays at TSA, but the change is real, and the time to get compliant is now.

If you’re not sure whether your ID qualifies, check for the star or check with your local DMV.