TSA urges consumers to change their identities as REAL ID's deadline approaches

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is rolling out a new public awareness campaign for REAL ID, to avoid the rush ahead as the deadline for switchover approaches. Travelers will not be able to board a flight without REAL ID or other identification as of October 1, 2020.

"We want the public to know, it is only an extra layer of security," said Tomas Cuellar, head of transport safety at TSA, CBS News.

The Congress enacted the REAL ID Act in 2005, following a Commission recommendation of 11 September 2001 establishing national safety standards for driving licenses and state identity cards. However, the application of these requirements has been delayed several times. REAL ID candidates require state candidates to submit documents proving their identity and US-based residency, David Pekoske, director of the TSA, said the move to REAL ID "would significantly improve the security of the US." commercial aviation ".

The TSA, however, starts the new awareness campaign early to avoid a bigger rush to the local DMVs.

"If you do not do it as soon as possible, everyone will rush at the last minute and we do not want someone who finds himself in a situation where he shows up at the airport ready to take the plane on vacation then suddenly can not get through, "said Cuellar.

Who is opposed to REAL ID?

Without a real identity card, travelers will not be able to board a flight unless they have another improved identification, such as a passport. Those with real credentials can also access federal facilities and nuclear power plants.

States have raised concerns about the REAL ID requirements of the law, including the retention of document images that license applicants submit as proof of identity, such as their birth certificates. State officials said the information could be violated and could be used to track down law-abiding US citizens.

They also oppose the US government, which unilaterally sets standards in a traditionally state-run domain.

What's a real ID like:

REAL ID cards are usually marked with a star symbol at the top of the card. Some areas will have specific stars for their REAL IDs. The appearance may therefore differ from one state to the other.

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Most states have already started issuing ID cards in compliance with REAL ID requirements. Four states: Oregon, Oklahoma, New Jersey and Maine have extensions and should be in compliance later this year.

What you need to get a real ID:

Each state differs in what you must bring with precision to obtain a certified REAL ID. Generally, a DMV will require your social security card, a birth certificate, another form of government issued ID and proof of residency.