By now, you may have heard the term “REAL ID” and how you will need one to travel. That deadline is now, less than a year away. TSA is stressing two important points: REAL ID enforcement will begin on October 1, 2020, and you must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification or another form of acceptable ID (like a passport) in order to board a flight. If TSA cannot verify your identity, you will not be permitted to enter the airport security checkpoint and will not be allowed to fly. In spite of this fast-approaching enforcement date, it’s estimated that only 27% of U.S. citizens currently have a state-issued identification that meets the REAL ID requirements. According to the Michigan Secretary of State, in order to obtain a compliant license, you’ll need to bring a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate with a raised seal or stamp to any Secretary of State office. Other documents verifying legal presence are accepted. There is no extra cost to apply when renewing your driver’s license or ID, but if you apply outside of your normal renewal time, a duplicate card fee will be charged.
