Can it be possible to use a Passport Card as an alternative to a REAL ID?
**New TSA Rules and Passport Use for Air Travel **
In the evolving landscape of air travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented several changes, as demonstrated by these five novel rules. Amidst growing lines and the eager desire to optimally utilize Paid Time Off (PTO) this summer, travelers are questioning the possibility of using a passport instead of a REAL ID for flight boarding.
Below you will find crucial information regarding air travel documentation before your next trip to the airport.
Passport Card as a REAL ID Alternative?
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirms that both the U.S. passport book and card meet the REAL ID compliance standards, permitting their use as REAL ID substitutes. The list of seven acceptable documents includes:
- A passport
- Enhanced driver's license
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID Card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential
- Permanent Resident Card
- Employment Authorization Document (I-766)
Train and car travel still accept standard licenses and IDs, but domestic and international flights require a REAL ID or REAL ID-compliant documents.
What Transpires Without a REAL ID?
Arriving at the airport without a REAL ID may lead to extra screening, and other valid documents are mandatory for flight boarding.
Renewing Passports and Associatedguidance
If you utilize your passport for travel within and beyond the U.S., take comfort in knowing that you can renew your passport online, with our guide streamlining the process.
In addition, we offer assistance in finding a passport acceptance facility and provide guidance on passport photo requirements to expedite your vacation preparation process.
Remember to check the "three-month and six-month passport rules" applicable to some countries to avoid possible trip disruption.
Privacy Experts' Recommendations on TSA Facial Recognition Scanners
Travelers are urged to decline TSA facial recognition scanners by privacy experts.
(Additional details may be found in the Enrichment Data below.)
Enrichment Data:
- U.S. REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or state IDs display a star symbol in the upper right corner, issued by participating U.S. states.
- MAJORITY OF STATE-ISSUED ENHANCED IDENTIFICATIONS ALSO COMPLY WITH THE REAL ID STANDARDS.
- FOR NON-U.S. CITIZENS, A VALID FOREIGN GOVERNMENT-ISSUED PASSPORT IS ACCEPTABLE.
- BEGINNING MAY 7, 2025, AN ADULT WILL NEED A REAL ID OR A REAL ID-COMPLIANT DOCUMENT TO BOARD DOMESTIC FLIGHTS OR ACCESS SELECT FEDERAL FACILITIES.
- FOREIGN GOVERNMENT-ISSUED PASSPORTS, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ID CARDS, DHS TRUSTED TRAVELER CARDS, ENHANCED DRIVER’S LICENSES, PASSPORT CARDS, U.S. GREEN CARDS, AND EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION DOCUMENTS (I-766) ARE ACCEPTED AS ALTERNATIVES TO A REAL ID.
- In light of the upcoming TSA regulations, individuals may need to reconsider their event planning and lifestyle choices, as a REAL ID or REAL ID-compliant alternative like a passport card might be necessary for air travel after May 2025.
- Travelers who prefer a hassle-free lifestyle during their getaways could find the use of a passport card convenient, given that it meets the REAL ID compliance standards and can be used for domestic and international travel.
