REAL ID requirements for domestic flights take effect next May
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At that time, travelers without a REAL ID-compliant driver's license will need to show another form of approved identification, such as a passport, in order to fly domestically or enter a secure federal facility or military base, among other spots.
“REAL ID is a coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards,” says Robin “Chuck” Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Richmond International Airport. “The improvements are intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.”
The REAL ID-compliant driver's license features a small star in the upper right hand corner. There is no general requirement for people to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license; standard driver's licenses will remain valid, just not for the access to domestic flights or federal facilities.
To get a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, visit a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles office in person and bring one proof of identity (passport or U.S. birth certificate); proof of legal presence (if you are not a U.S. citizen); two proofs of Virginia residency; your Social Security card (if you’ve been issued one); and a current driver’s license if you are applying to exchange one issued by another U.S. state.
