Travelers in the United States could have their vacations derailed this summer if they don't secure a Real ID.
The May 7 deadline set by the Department of Homeland Security is fast approaching, meaning old driver's licenses will no longer be considered an acceptable form of identification for adults boarding domestic flights.
But what happens if you arrive at a TSA security checkpoint without a Real ID? Here's everything you need to know.
What is a Real ID?
Real IDs were a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission, formed in 2002 under former President George W. Bush, for the federal government to "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses and identification cards."
In addition to boarding domestic commercial flights, Real IDs will be required to grant access to certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants.
The US Congress formally passed the Real ID Act in 2005. But the federal government has delayed enforcing Real IDs several times over the past two decades. Though Real IDs are a form of identification, Homeland Security says they are not considered proof of citizenship.
How do you know if you have a Real ID-compliant card?
Unlike previous ID cards, a Real ID will have a star marking on the upper half of the card.
"If the card does not have a star marking, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won't be accepted as proof of identity to board commercial aircraft," Homeland Security said.
But there are variations. Depending on the state, Real IDs can feature a gold star, a black star, a gold circle with a white star cutout, or a black circle with a white star cutout.
In California, Real IDs have an image of a gold grizzly bear with a white star cutout. Homeland Security announced on April 24 that New York State Real IDs, enhanced licenses, and identification cards will have a star or the US flag.
How do you get a Real ID?
The process of acquiring a Real ID varies by state.
For example, obtaining a Real ID in Alaska means applying in person at an Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles office and providing a primary document showing specific information, including birth name and US citizenship status.
In Texas, people can apply for a Real ID-compliant card in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety office. Some may be eligible to renew their driver's license or ID online.
Homeland Security says that at the very least, people must present documents showing their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of principal residence address, and legal status to obtain a Real ID.
As Business Insider has reported, some people who have changed their names via marriage or divorce are having trouble gathering the necessary paperwork to apply for Real ID.
Homeland Security's website provides a Real ID map, allowing users to click on their state for more information.
Photos showed Americans throughout the United States waiting hours in line to obtain Real IDs ahead of the deadline, with some government offices remaining open longer than normal to accommodate the crowds.
The line at a Real ID Super Center in Chicago, operated by the Secretary of State, stretched for nearly two blocks the day before the deadline.
Can you apply for a Real ID after the May 7 deadline?
Though Homeland Security is set to begin enforcing Real IDs on May 7, people can submit applications anytime. Those who don't have a Real ID card by that date could face issues traveling in the United States and lose access to certain federal buildings.
Can you fly without a real ID after May 7?
Adults flying domestically in the United States can show an alternative form of identification. The Transportation Security Administration doesn't require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States.
The agency's website shared a list of accepted identification options, including US passports, US passport cards, state-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses, and more. But in April, TSA said the temporary paper card given to applicants by the DMV wouldn't be accepted.
If travelers don't have an acceptable form of ID, a TSA officer "may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity," TSA's website says, continuing: "If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening."
"You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you choose to not provide acceptable identification, you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed," the website says.
Homeland Security says passengers attempting to fly without proper identification can "expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint."
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reiterated this on Tuesday, saying those without a Real ID would be able to fly, though they would be subject to additional questioning at airports.
