U.S. Travelers Face Changes as REAL ID Implementation Begins on Wednesday
Transformed Piece:
Heads up, travelers! Starting May 7, air travel in the USA is gonna get real, or should I say, REAL ID. The Department of Homeland Security is implementing new security standards for domestic flights, and old IDs simply won't cut it. I mean, who wants to deal with the hassle of being turned away at the airport? To help us navigate this crazy new world, I hand 'em over to Clint Henderson, travel guru at The Points Guy.
A: Hey Clint, I got my California driver's license with me right now. You know, I think I got my REAL ID years ago, but didn't notice any difference. So how does this REAL ID thingy different from my ID before?
C: Well, turbo, let me tell ya. For California, your real ID should have a golden bear on the upper right-hand side with a star in it. Think of it as a flaming California bear on steroids.
A: Ugh, like the backside of a grizzly bear with a star on its bum (laughs). So what's new with this REAL ID compared to the one I had before?
C: Well, litt'le buddy, you've got more things to prove! It's like joining the secret club of IDs, I reckon. They want to see that you've got a Social Security number, a birth certificate, and all sorts of backup papers—stuff they don't usually ask for when you get an ID.
A: Oh, great. So I gotta prove more stuff? Now, what if I don't have a REAL ID and still wanna travel?
C: Fret not, cowboy, 'cause there's some good news here! Airports have got a two-year wiggle room. That means your ID might get you through with a bit more screening, but there could still be backup at the airport when this goes into effect.
A: What can I use if I ain't got no REAL ID and don't want none of that screening?
C: Alrighty, here's the lowdown. A passport or passport card works just fine. And if you've got Global Entry, NEXUS, FAST border-crossing, SENTRI, or even a permanent resident card, a U.S. Department of Defense ID, a border-crossing card, or an enhanced driver's license, you're already covered, partner.
A: All right, so who exactly can get this REAL ID thingy?
C: Anybody who's getting a driving license or state ID renewed, I reckon.
A: Would it be smart to head to a smaller airport in my city?
C: Hell yeah, partner (laughs)! The bigger airports could be dealing with more passengers, so starting small would be your best bet.
A: And you're at an airport right now, Clint. How quick'd you get through?
C: It was motorcycle fast, like less than a minute. And I tried chat up a few of the agents 'bout REAL ID, but they didn't seem too interested (laughs). Wished 'em all luck though.
A: Dang. You shoulda told 'em who you were, Clint Henderson, travel guru at The Points Guy.
C: Nah, that wouldn't have helped, mate.
A: Well, Clint, thanks a ton!
C: You're welcome, partner! Be savvy and secure your REAL ID.
- "In light of the new REAL ID requirements, it's important to note that governments are now demanding more documents from travelers, including proof of a Social Security number and birth certificate, which wasn't necessary before."
- "Besides a REAL ID, other acceptable forms of identification for domestic travel include a passport or passport card, Global Entry, NEXUS, FAST border-crossing, SENTRI, or a permanent resident card, among others."
