REAL ID Oct. deadline for flyers approaching
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) – Travelers who plan to fly after Oct.1 may need to update their photo ID. A photo ID such as a driver’s license will need to be updated for security reasons.
After the Oct. deadline the regular Wisconsin driver license or ID will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel or to enter a federal building or military base. Travelers will need to show a REAL ID-compliant driver license or state ID card. A passport will also be accepted.
“You’re going to need it to fly,” said traveler Ron Woodard.
REAL IDs have been issued since 2013.
“It’s an enhanced driver’s license that proves that you have proven your identity and legal residency in the United States,” said Miranda TeerBeest, manager of marketing at the La Crosse Regional Airport.
A REAL ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner. If a person doesn’t have the correct ID they’ll have to visit the DMV. Several documents are needed to get a REAL ID.
“Documentation that’s been required in the past isn’t necessarily going to be the same for the Real ID,” TerBeest said.
Woodard said he made sure to understand what documents were needed before going to the DMV.
“There is some paperwork that catches you off guard if you don’t know that,” he said.
Some of the required documents include proof of date of birth and true full name, such as a U.S. Passport, birth certificate or resident card. Other documents include proof of social security number with a social security card or a tax form.
There is important information on the DMV’s website for people who have legally changed their name.
If you have legally changed your name, you need to change your name with the Social Security Administration and wait 48 hours before going to a DMV customer service center. When you go to a DMV customer service center to change your name on your driver’s license or identification card, you will be required to show proof of your name change.
The following are acceptable documents to show proof of your name change:
- Certified marriage certificate
- Certified record of divorce
- Certified court order
- Valid unexpired U.S. Passport issued in your current name
People need to prove where they live with documents such as a lease agreement or property tax bill. Only original documents will be accepted, no scanned or digital copies. It’s good to be prepared or it will result in missing a flight.
“When you purchase a ticket you are confirming you will have the proper documentation when you arrive at the airport,” TerBeest said. “If you don’t, unfortunately, your ticket will be forfeited.”
A REAL ID costs $14 if a license has not expired. Since this is an election year voters will not need a REAL ID to vote. Regular driver licenses or IDs may be used.
Information about REAL ID can be found below.
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