REAL ID Program Begins May 7, 2025
January 15, 2025
Are you REAL ID ready? Beginning May 7, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security will enforce REAL ID for federal purposes, including airport security. According the DHS website, "The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government 'set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses and identification cards.'"
How do I know if I have REAL ID?
To check if your ID is Real ID-compliant, look for a gold or black star symbol. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from select states are also compliant. If unsure, you can contact your local DMV.
I don't have a REAL ID. How do I get one?
Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required* to obtain a REAL ID. At a minimum, you must provide documentation showing:
1) Full Legal Name
2) Date of Birth
3) Social Security Number
4) Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence;
5) Lawful Status.
*Certain states may impose additional requirements, so check with your state’s driver’s licensing agency website, before visiting them in person, for additional guidance and assistance.
What will happen when REAL ID enforcement begins on May 7, 2025?
Federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, may only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as identification for purposes of accessing federal facilities (including TSA airport security checkpoints) if the license or card was issued by a REAL ID-compliant state in accordance with the REAL ID security standards (meaning the license or card must include the REAL ID-compliant marking). Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. Most EDLs do not contain the star marking and this is acceptable.
Do I still need a passport if I have REAL ID?
Yes, if you are traveling internationally you will still need your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.
When you book a trip with Sunrise Tours, we will send 3 key communications for your tour; “Get Ready” is your email confirmation and initial tour information sent upon registration, “Get Set” email will be sent about two months before departure, “Go” trip documentation mailing is sent via USPS 3-4 weeks before departure. Information regarding REAL ID will be available in these documents. If you have any questions, visit https://www.dhs.gov/real-id or contact your local DMV for assistance.
As stated in the Sunrise Tours Policies, "Failure to present proper proof of citizenship can result in denied entry, and you may not be able to join and/or continue with our tour. Sunrise Tours will not be responsible for the accuracy of your citizenship documents or any additional costs incurred due to incomplete documentation. All passengers should check with the appropriate consulate for entry requirements. Obtaining appropriate documentation is the passenger’s responsibility. Sunrise Tours bears no responsibility for advising and/or obtaining required travel documentation for you, or for any delays, damages, and/or losses including missed portions of your vacation related to improper documentation or government decisions about entry."
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