Real ID Deadline Extended: What You Need to Know

Everything About Real ID Deadline Extended: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently declared a two-year extension for obtaining Real ID, a heightened driver’s license. The new deadline is now May 2025, providing relief to travelers planning domestic flights, as the previous deadline was set for May 3, 2023. This extension aims to address delays linked to COVID-related disruptions, giving states more time to ensure residents acquire Real ID-compliant licenses.

Everything About Real ID Deadline Extended: Travel Updates

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas stated that the extension allows states to facilitate the process and implement innovations for efficiency. The decision received support from various air travel organizations, emphasizing its role in preventing disruptions and supporting the aviation system amid ongoing global travel challenges.

Delta Airlines is set to launch premium lounges throughout 2024, offering more spacious and personalized spaces with gourmet dining at major airports. While entry requirements are undisclosed, similar lounges usually cater to premium passengers and loyalty members. The first lounge at JFK in June will be the largest in Delta’s network, featuring unique designs reflecting each city.

Also Read: Everything About Real ID Deadline Extended

In conjunction with premium lounges, Delta plans to enhance existing Sky Clubs, addressing congestion concerns. LaGuardia’s Sky Club will add 100 seats and an outdoor Sky Deck, while Miami’s outpost expands to 12,000 square feet. New lounges in Charlotte and Seattle, the latter measuring 21,000 square feet, aim to alleviate overcrowding.

To manage lounge crowding, Delta implemented entry rules for credit card holders, restricting access for basic economy passengers. Further limitations for cardholders will be enforced from February 2025.

Real ID, a federal security standard for identification, is crucial for air travel. The new rules will be effective from May 7, 2025, requiring all U.S. residents to possess Real ID-compliant identification for domestic flights. Obtaining a Real ID driver’s license involves visiting the DMV in person and providing additional documentation to prove identity.

Also Read: Everything About Real ID Deadline Extended in 2024

Passports, passport cards, and Global Entry cards are alternative forms of acceptable identification. Children under 18 enjoy some flexibility, not needing identification when traveling with a companion within the U.S.

Real ID-compliant licenses are marked with a star, and enhanced driver’s licenses, issued by some states, are also acceptable. TSA PreCheck passengers using a mobile driver’s license should still carry a physical ID as a backup.

TSA confirms that children under 18 traveling with a companion are not required to show identification. However, travelers should verify airline-specific rules for minor identification.

Failure to present acceptable ID under the new rules will result in denial through airport security, barring passengers from flying. TSA emphasizes that alternative verification processes will not be provided after Real ID implementation, emphasizing the importance of compliance.

Also Read: Everything About Real ID Deadline Extended

Get the Travel News Updates along with the World’s Latest Updates at TheNewsay and Follow for Live Updates – Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Twitter, Pinterest, KooApp and YouTube.