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As air travel becomes increasingly regulated, it’s important to stay informed about the latest requirements for boarding a plane. One question that many travelers are asking is whether or not they need a Real ID to fly with United Airlines.
The short answer is yes, you do need a Real ID to fly United Airlines (and any other domestic airline) starting in October 2021. But what exactly is a Real ID, and how can you get one? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this important requirement for air travel.
Contents
- Do I Need a Real ID to Fly United Airlines?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Real ID?
- What forms of identification are accepted by United Airlines?
- What happens if I don’t have a Real ID?
- How do I get a Real ID?
- What if I have a non-US passport?
- Do you currently need a ‘Real ID’ to fly in the U.S.?
- What Is United Airlines Slogan?
- The Top 5 Destinations To Explore With United Airlines
- What Are United Regional Airlines?
Do I Need a Real ID to Fly United Airlines?
If you are planning to fly within the United States and want to know whether you need a Real ID to board a United Airlines flight, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore what a Real ID is and whether it is necessary to have one when flying with United Airlines.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a driver’s license or identification card that meets the standards set by the federal government under the REAL ID Act. It is a more secure form of identification that includes features such as a barcode, a magnetic strip, and a hologram. The purpose of the Real ID Act is to improve the security of driver’s licenses and identification cards to prevent fraud and identity theft.
If you have a Real ID, it means that you have provided the required documentation to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to prove your identity, residency, and legal status in the United States.
Do I need a Real ID to fly with United Airlines?
Starting from October 1, 2021, passengers who want to board a domestic flight within the United States will need to have a Real ID or an alternative form of acceptable identification. This is in compliance with the Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005.
If you do not have a Real ID, you can still use other forms of acceptable identification such as a passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a DHS Trusted Traveler Card (such as Global Entry or NEXUS).
How can I get a Real ID?
If you want to obtain a Real ID, you will need to visit your state’s DMV and provide the required documentation to prove your identity, residency, and legal status. The documents you will need to bring may vary depending on your state, but they typically include:
- Your current driver’s license or ID card
- Your Social Security number or proof of your Social Security number
- Proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement)
- Proof of legal status (such as a birth certificate or passport)
Once you have provided the required documents, your DMV will verify them and issue you a Real ID if you are eligible.
Benefits of having a Real ID
Having a Real ID can make your travels within the United States more convenient and secure. With a Real ID, you will be able to board a domestic flight without having to bring your passport or other alternative forms of identification. Additionally, a Real ID can be used as a form of identification for other purposes such as accessing federal facilities or entering nuclear power plants.
Real ID vs. Passport
While both a Real ID and a passport can be used as acceptable forms of identification for domestic flights, there are some key differences between the two.
| Real ID | Passport | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Varies by state | $110 for adults (16 and older) |
| Validity | 4-8 years depending on your state | 10 years |
| International travel | Cannot be used for international travel | Can be used for international travel |
If you plan to travel internationally, you will need to have a passport. However, if you only plan to travel within the United States, a Real ID may be a more convenient and cost-effective option.
Conclusion
Starting from October 1, 2021, passengers who want to board a domestic flight within the United States will need to have a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification. While having a Real ID is not mandatory, it can make your travels within the United States more convenient and secure. If you do not have a Real ID, you can still use other forms of acceptable identification such as a passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a DHS Trusted Traveler Card. Remember to check with your state’s DMV to find out what documents you will need to obtain a Real ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a federally approved form of identification that meets the standards established by the Real ID Act of 2005. It features a star in the top right corner of the ID to indicate that it meets the federal requirements.
Real IDs are required for certain activities, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering certain federal buildings. They are not required for driving, voting, or other everyday activities.
What forms of identification are accepted by United Airlines?
United Airlines accepts a variety of forms of identification for domestic flights, including Real IDs, passports, and enhanced driver’s licenses. If you don’t have a Real ID, you can also use a passport or another form of acceptable identification.
It’s important to check the United Airlines website or contact the airline directly to confirm their current policies and requirements for identification.
What happens if I don’t have a Real ID?
If you don’t have a Real ID, you may not be able to board your flight. However, you can still use other forms of acceptable identification, such as a passport or enhanced driver’s license.
It’s important to check the requirements for your specific flight and destination before you travel to ensure that you have the necessary identification.
How do I get a Real ID?
You can get a Real ID by visiting your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Transportation (DOT) office and providing the required documentation, such as a birth certificate, social security card, and proof of address.
It’s important to check the specific requirements for your state and DMV or DOT office before you go, as the requirements may vary.
What if I have a non-US passport?
If you have a non-US passport, you may still be able to board your United Airlines flight without a Real ID. However, it’s important to check the airline’s policies and requirements before you travel, as they may vary depending on your destination and other factors.
It’s also important to ensure that your passport is valid and up-to-date before you travel, as expired passports may not be accepted for travel.
Do you currently need a ‘Real ID’ to fly in the U.S.?
In conclusion, having a Real ID is not a requirement for flying United Airlines, but it is highly recommended. The Real ID Act was put in place to ensure the safety and security of travelers and it is expected that all states will be compliant by October 1, 2021. So, it is important to check with your state’s DMV to see if you have a Real ID or how to obtain one if you plan on using it for air travel.
Not having a Real ID may result in longer wait times and additional screening measures, which can cause unnecessary stress and delays. It is always better to be prepared and have the proper identification to make your travel experience as smooth as possible.
Overall, while it may not be required at the moment, having a Real ID is a smart choice for anyone who plans on flying within the United States. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to check your ID status and obtain a Real ID if necessary.
