The Department of Homeland Security is implementing the final phase of the 2005 REAL ID Act, which establishes stricter standards for state-issued forms of identification. But don’t stress too much about it. When you go through airport security, the Transportation Security Administration will continue to accept most state-issued driver’s licenses as valid forms of ID until the law is fully implemented in October 2020—or until your driver’s license comes up for renewal.
If your current driver’s license doesn’t have a gold or silver star located in the right-hand corner, you will probably have to make a trip to your Department of Motor Vehicles or other state agency that issues IDs when it’s time to renew it. You’ll need to bring original copies of your Social Security card, proof of residency, birth certificate or passport, and other documents verifying identity.
Read your renewal notice carefully. Some states list REAL ID–compliant licenses as an option, but not a requirement, when renewing, so make sure you’re getting the right license for air travel. Consider springing for a passport if you don’t already have one to avoid confusion when flying; the cost is $135 for first-time adult applicants. For other forms of acceptable ID, go to www.tsa.gov and type “identification” in the search bar.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Be a smarter, better informed investor.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
Dow, S&P 500 Slip on December Rate Cut Worries, Nvidia Boosts Nasdaq: Stock Market TodayNvidia became the first company ever to boast a $5 trillion market cap, but it wasn't enough to lift the Dow and the S&P 500.
-
Where You Choose to Stash $100k Now Comes with a Big Opportunity CostThe Fed recently cut rates. Here's where to maximize your savings while rates remain higher.
-
Child-Free Cruises Perfect For Your Retirement CelebrationHow to find a bespoke ocean or river vacation for adults. Many of these options are smaller, charming river cruises, expeditions, or niche experiences.
-
Noctourism: The New Travel Trend For Your Next Trip"Noctourism" is a new trend of building travel and vacations around events and plans that take place at night. Take a look at some inspiring noctourism ideas.
-
My Husband and I Retired at 67 With $3.2 Million, But He's Frugal About Travel. How Can I Convince Him to Loosen Up?We asked financial planning experts for advice.
-
Cruise Lines Sue to Block Hawaii’s New Climate Tourism TaxState Tax Your vacation to the Aloha State could come at a higher price tag next year. Here’s why.
-
How to Find the Best Alternatives to Popular Travel DestinationsYou don’t have to bust your budget or battle big crowds to enjoy pristine natural beauty, rich culture, authentic cuisine and more.
-
Seven Golf Course Destinations to Vacation Away from the CrowdsBeat the growing crowds of new golfers at these golf course destinations off the beaten path.
-
Amazon Resale: Where Amazon Prime Returns Become Your Online BargainsFeature Amazon Resale products may have some imperfections, but that often leads to wildly discounted prices.
-
The United and JetBlue Partnership: Everything We Know About Blue Sky So FarDOT approves Blue Sky, the United and JetBlue partnership that will give frequent fliers more ways to earn and use miles. Here's what you need to know.
