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United Airlines is one of the world’s largest airlines, serving millions of passengers every year. With the introduction of the Real ID Act, many travelers are wondering if United Airlines requires Real ID for domestic flights. The answer is not straightforward, and it’s essential to understand the requirements to ensure a stress-free travel experience.
In this article, we will explore the Real ID Act and how it affects United Airlines passengers. We will also discuss the different types of identification accepted by the airline, so you can make an informed decision about what to bring on your next flight. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, this guide will provide valuable insights into United Airlines’ ID requirements.
Contents
- Does United Airlines Require Real ID?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Real ID?
- What forms of ID does United Airlines accept?
- Can I still fly with a non-compliant ID?
- How do I know if my ID is Real ID compliant?
- What happens if I don’t have the required ID?
- 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?
Does United Airlines Require Real ID?
United Airlines is one of the major airlines in the United States that operates both domestic and international flights. If you are planning to fly with United Airlines, you might be wondering if you need a Real ID. Let’s take a closer look at the requirements.
What is Real ID?
Real ID is a federal law in the United States that was enacted in 2005. It sets the standards for identification documents that are accepted by federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Real ID-compliant identification cards have a gold star on them, which indicates that they meet the standards set by the law.
Real ID is not mandatory for everyone, but it is required for certain activities, such as boarding a domestic flight, entering a federal facility, or accessing a nuclear power plant. If you do not have a Real ID-compliant identification card, you will need to show an alternative form of identification that is accepted by the TSA.
Does United Airlines Require Real ID?
Starting on October 1, 2021, all passengers who are 18 years and older and traveling on a domestic flight within the United States will need to present a Real ID-compliant identification card or an alternative form of identification that is accepted by the TSA. This is a requirement for all airlines, including United Airlines.
If you are traveling on an international flight, you do not need a Real ID-compliant identification card. However, you will need to present a valid passport and any other documents that are required for your destination country.
How to Get a Real ID?
To get a Real ID-compliant identification card, you will need to visit your local DMV or driver’s license agency. You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, proof of social security number, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. The cost of a Real ID-compliant identification card varies by state, but it is typically around $30.
If you already have a valid passport, you do not need to get a Real ID-compliant identification card. A passport is an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights and other activities that require a Real ID.
Benefits of Real ID?
Real ID-compliant identification cards offer several benefits, including:
- Increased security: Real ID-compliant identification cards are designed to be more secure and harder to counterfeit than previous identification cards.
- Convenience: Real ID-compliant identification cards are accepted by federal agencies, such as the TSA, which means that you can use them to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility without needing additional forms of identification.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you have a Real ID-compliant identification card can give you peace of mind when traveling or accessing federal facilities.
Real ID vs. Passport?
While both Real ID-compliant identification cards and passports are acceptable forms of identification for domestic flights, there are some differences between the two:
| Real ID | Passport | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Varies by state, typically around $30 | $145 for adults, $115 for children under 16 |
| Validity | Varies by state, up to 8 years | 10 years for adults, 5 years for children under 16 |
| International Travel | Not accepted for international travel | Accepted for international travel |
If you travel frequently internationally, a passport may be a better option for you. However, if you only travel domestically, a Real ID-compliant identification card may be more convenient and cost-effective.
Conclusion
Starting on October 1, 2021, all passengers who are 18 years and older and traveling on a domestic flight within the United States will need to present a Real ID-compliant identification card or an alternative form of identification that is accepted by the TSA. If you do not have a Real ID-compliant identification card, you will need to get one or use an alternative form of identification, such as a passport. Real ID-compliant identification cards offer increased security, convenience, and peace of mind when traveling or accessing federal facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to United Airlines and Real ID:
What is Real ID?
Real ID is a federally mandated identification program that was created after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Real ID-compliant cards are marked with a star symbol in the upper right corner.
Starting October 1, 2021, travelers will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or another acceptable form of identification to fly within the United States.
What forms of ID does United Airlines accept?
United Airlines accepts a variety of government-issued identification, including passports, permanent resident cards, and driver’s licenses or state-issued ID cards that are Real ID compliant.
Starting October 1, 2021, travelers will need to present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID card, or another acceptable form of identification, to board a domestic flight.
Can I still fly with a non-compliant ID?
Until September 30, 2021, travelers can still use their non-compliant driver’s licenses or state-issued ID cards to fly domestically. However, starting October 1, 2021, a Real ID-compliant ID or an acceptable alternative form of identification will be required to board a domestic flight.
If you do not have a Real ID-compliant ID and do not wish to obtain one, you can use an alternative form of acceptable identification, such as a passport, a permanent resident card, or a Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler program card.
How do I know if my ID is Real ID compliant?
If your driver’s license or state-issued ID card is Real ID compliant, it will have a star symbol in the upper right corner or somewhere on the card. You can check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or similar agency to see if your ID is compliant.
If you do not have a Real ID-compliant ID, you can obtain one by visiting your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or similar agency and providing the required documentation.
What happens if I don’t have the required ID?
Starting October 1, 2021, travelers who do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID card, or another acceptable form of identification, will not be allowed to board a domestic flight. However, you can still use other acceptable forms of identification, such as a passport or permanent resident card, to fly domestically.
If you do not have any acceptable form of identification, you may be subject to additional screening and questioning by TSA officers, and you may be delayed or prohibited from boarding your flight.
Do you currently need a ‘Real ID’ to fly in the U.S.?
In conclusion, United Airlines does require a Real ID for domestic travel. This means that passengers will need to ensure that they have the necessary identification documents before they fly. While this may seem like an inconvenience, it is important to remember that Real ID requirements were put in place to improve the security of air travel and to ensure that passengers are who they say they are.
Fortunately, obtaining a Real ID is a relatively straightforward process. Individuals will need to provide certain documents, such as a birth certificate or passport, and visit a DMV or other authorized agency to complete the application process. While the process may take some time, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have the proper identification for air travel is well worth the effort.
In the end, it is important to stay informed about any changes to airline regulations and requirements, including Real ID requirements. By doing so, you can ensure that you are always prepared for your travels and can enjoy a stress-free journey from start to finish. So, make sure to keep your identification documents up to date and enjoy your next flight with United Airlines.
