17-05-2025
The Real ID deadline is here. What you need to board your next flight
The long-awaited Real ID deadline is finally here but those without the federal identification may still be able to board their flights.
Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem said Tuesday that fliers without their Real IDs will "have an extra step" but will ultimately be permitted to fly for now.
While things have reportedly been going smoothly at airports throughout this morning, passengers are still encouraged to pad their travel time in case of delays.
Here's what you need to know:
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification cards and driver's licenses. It's designed to help prevent fraudulent identification, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
The Real ID is not mandatory for Pennsylvania residents but you will now need federal identification to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities.
There's still plenty of time to get a Real ID in Pennsylvania as the state will continue processing applications for the foreseeable future.
PennDOT is also holding another Real ID day on May 12 to process as many applications as possible.
You will need to produce several other pieces of identification, including proof of citizenship, proof of residency and valid Social Security Number when applying for a Real ID.
A checklist for all of the documentation required to obtain a Real ID is available on the PennDOT website.
When you apply for the Real ID, you must pay the license renewal fee in addition to $30 for the Real ID. It costs $39.50 to renew a four-year non-commercial license and $42.50 for a photo ID, according to PennDOT.
You'll then be issued a Real ID with an additional four years added onto the expiration date that was listed on your drivers license.
Lacey Latch is the development reporter for the Bucks County Courier Times and The Intelligencer. She can be reached at LLatch@
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Real ID deadline is here. What to know before heading to the airport
