How can I tell if I have a real ID? Look for this symbol on your Arizona license
When the requirements for Real ID finally take effect nationwide on May 7, air travelers must have a star on their state identification to get through security and board their flight.
As the May 7 deadline approaches, people are applying for Real IDs at state motor vehicle offices and approved third-party offices. They arrive with the necessary documents so they'll be ready to fly and avoid the consequences of not having one.
But how do you know if your drivers license is Real ID-ready?
Here's how to tell if you have a Real ID and what an Arizona Travel ID, the state's version of Real, ID, looks like.
The Arizona Travel ID — which is a Real ID — is distinguishable from a standard drivers license by a gold or black star on the upper right corner. Starting May 7, your ID must have that gold or black star in the corner to pass through airport security checkpoints or enter federal buildings.
Most states' Real ID cards have a solid gold or black star, or a clear star inside a gold or black circle. The California Real ID has a clear star inside a gold bear, which plays on the California state flag that shows a grizzly bear atop a patch of grass.
Recently issued state credentials that are not Real ID-compliant will include the label, "Not for federal identification."
A gold star on the upper right corner of an Arizona Travel ID indicates that it's Real ID compliant.
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Travel IDs issued since 2023 contain a black star.
Regardless of whether the star is gold or black, it signifies a Real ID.
The Arizona Travel ID costs $25.
An Arizona Real ID is good for eight years.
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Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who's covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic's consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at Michael.Salerno@gannett.com.
Subscribe to azcentral.com today.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What does Real ID look like? How to tell if you have one
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