Traveling soon? If you haven't been to an airport lately, now's a good time to brush up on some recent developments that will affect you in the security line. And if you're planning a trip across the pond, you may have to get a special authorization to enter the country you're visiting.
1. Real ID
For adults who board domestic flights, the Transportation Security Administration now accepts only a driver's license or other state-issued photo identification that is compliant with REAL ID security standards. The rule, which went into effect in early May, stems from the REAL ID Act, a 2005 law that established minimum security standards for state licenses and other IDs.
If you don't have a REAL ID, you can get one by going to a branch of your state's department of motor vehicles and presenting documentation such as your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address. (You can find the requirements of your state at the website of its driver's licensing agency, which you can look up at USA.gov.)
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
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.
The TSA accepts certain other forms of ID for domestic flights, too, such as a passport. See the full list of qualifying options at the TSA website.
If you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other eligible identification, you may still be able to fly if you go through additional screening, such as providing your name and address on TSA's Certification of Identity form, says Marie Russell, luxury travel adviser at Confetti Travel Service in Kitty Hawk, N.C.
2. One less annoyance in the security line
Over the summer, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security stopped requiring airline passengers to remove their shoes as they pass through TSA security checkpoints. The shoes-off policy had been in place since 2006, following a passenger's failed attempt to detonate a bomb hidden in his footwear.
Despite the relaxed rules, you may still have to remove your shoes in certain cases, Russell says — for example, if you're subject to a random secondary screening.
3. An extra requirement for travel to the UK
U.S. citizens who are planning a trip of up to six months to the United Kingdom must apply for an electronic travel authorization (ETA), which is electronically linked to your passport. You'll pay a fee of 16 British pounds (which recently equaled about $22). At the U.K. government's website, you'll find more information, as well as a link to the application.
You'll typically receive a decision on your application within a day. Once your ETA is approved, it's valid for two years or until your linked passport expires. You can travel to the U.K. as much as you like while the ETA is active.
4. A heads-up for future trips to Europe
For travelers to many European countries, a requirement similar to the U.K.'s ETA is on the horizon. Starting in the final quarter of 2026, U.S. residents will have to apply with the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before visiting any of the 30 participating countries in Europe. (For a list, go here.) Your ETIAS authorization will be digitally connected to your passport.
The ETIAS application includes basic information, such as your date of birth and passport number, as well as details, including the purpose of your trip and your occupation. The application requires a fee of 20 euros (recently, that was about $23) for travelers ages 18 to 70; those outside that age range don't have to pay the fee.
You can use your ETIAS authorization for trips of up to 90 days within any 180 days, and the authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires.
Note: This item first appeared in Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine, a monthly, trustworthy source of advice and guidance. Subscribe to help you make more money and keep more of the money you make here.
Related Content
-
I'm retired with $2.2 million saved and work 2 retail shifts a week for fun. My young colleague just got her hours cut, and I don't need the money. Should I quit so she can have my shifts?We asked certified financial planners for advice.
-
Could an Annuity Be Your Retirement Safety Net?More people are considering annuities to achieve tax-deferred growth and guaranteed income, but deciding if they are right for you depends on these key factors.
-
Older Taxpayers: Don't Miss This Hefty (Temporary) Tax BreakIf you're age 65 or older, you can claim a "bonus" tax deduction of up to $6,000 through 2028 that can be stacked on top of other deductions.
-
CD vs. Money Market: Where to Put Your Year-End Bonus NowFalling interest rates have savers wondering where to park cash. Here's how much $10,000 earns in today's best CDs versus leading money market accounts.
-
Meet the World's Unluckiest — Not to Mention Entitled — Porch PirateThis teen swiped a booby-trapped package that showered him with glitter, and then he hurt his wrist while fleeing. This is why no lawyer will represent him.
-
Smart Business: How Community Engagement Can Help Fuel GrowthAs a financial professional, you can strengthen your brand while making a difference in your community. See how these pros turned community spirit into growth.
-
Smart Money Moves Savers Should Make in 2026These steps will get you on the road to achieving your 2026 savings goals.
-
How Much Would a $50,000 HELOC Cost Per Month?Thinking about tapping your home’s equity? Here’s what a $50,000 HELOC might cost you each month based on current rates.
-
My First $1 Million: Self-Employed Trader, 50, San FranciscoEver wonder how someone who's made a million dollars or more did it? Kiplinger's My First $1 Million series uncovers the answers.
-
Waiting for Retirement to Give to Charity? Here Are 3 Reasons to Do It Now, From a Financial PlannerYou could wait until retirement, but making charitable giving part of your financial plan now could be far more beneficial for you and the causes you support.
-
Are You Ghosting Your Finances? What to Do About Your Money StressAvoidance can make things worse. You can change your habits by starting small, talking with a family member or friend and being consistent and persistent.
