Latest news with #RealID-ready
Axios
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Axios
Iowa's Real ID holdouts face waits, extra screening
Starting Wednesday, you'll need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building quickly — and if you don't have one yet, buckle up for a wait. Why it matters: The federal Real ID requirement is finally kicking in after years of delays. While just over 76% of Iowa drivers are already compliant, thousands are still scrambling to make the cut. You can use a valid passport instead of a Real ID at the airport, but nearly 60% of Iowans don't have one, according to the Center for American Progress. How it works: Real ID standardizes U.S. identification rather than accepting state-specific driver's licenses. Compliant IDs are typically marked with a star in the upper right corner, like Iowa's, though the specific design may vary by state. State of play: As of Tuesday, people could board domestic flights with a license that is not a Real ID, but starting today, a Real ID, passport or similar document is needed. You can still board a plane without a Real ID, but you will need to undergo additional screening and face potential delays, according to Des Moines International Airport. Those who lack an identification that complies "may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step" but ultimately will be able to fly for now, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told a congressional panel Tuesday. What they're saying: Iowa is ahead of the national 61% Real ID rate because the state started issuing them in 2013, years before many other states, Kathleen Meradith-Eyers, director of the Iowa Department of Transportation's motor division, tells Axios. What we're watching: More than 2 million Iowans already have their Real ID, but appointments for those who don't are nearly two months out at some driver's license stations. The earliest online appointment available yesterday at the Polk County Place station was June 30. The other side: DOT staff members try to accommodate walk-in appointments when possible and frequently open additional time slots when staffing is available. The DOT served 20,000 people at its license centers last week, up more than 40% from the typical 14,000, Meradith-Eyers said. Bottom line: If you're not Real ID-ready, your summer travel plans may have hiccups.
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Yahoo
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. Get weekend plans. Sign up for our Things to Do newsletter. 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. Phoenix airport guide: All the airlines, food and lounges in Terminal 3, Terminal 4 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 Subscribe to today. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What does Real ID look like? How to tell if you have one
