Those who don't meet these requirements can still apply for an enhanced license, but won't be eligible until they turn 22. The card will also be recognized at land borders.Īn applicant for an enhanced license must provide evidence of having met the requirements for state eligibility by submitting a copy of their birth certificate that shows they were born in the United States, or a passport showing they were born in another country with proof of citizenship.Īpplicants between the ages of 18 and 21 will need to submit a copy of their birth certificate that shows they were born in the United States, or a passport showing they were born in another country with proof of citizenship. Why would I need an enhanced driver’s license?Ī Government REAL ID-compliant upgraded license, permit, or non-driver ID is accepted to board a domestic aircraft (inside the United States), enter military bases, and some federal buildings. It is best to know the rules ahead of time so you do not get stopped at the gate.įinally, it is important to remember that although federal law does not require you to show a photo ID to fly, the airlines must allow you to fly under certain conditions. There are plenty of other states' laws that could prevent you from boarding the plane. For example, Kansas does not recognize Tennessee licenses, so even if you have a valid license from Tennessee, you would not be allowed to enter Kansas without producing a new license. It is also important to note that some states do not recognize each other's licenses, so even if you can prove who you are with a valid license from another state, you might not be allowed to board the plane unless the state where the problem occurred issues its own license. You should check with the airport you plan to visit before arriving at the airport. Some require a photo on a card more than one step removed from the actual license or ID others may want a digital image. In addition, many airports have their own requirements for photographic identification.
#NEW YORK ENHANCED DRIVERS LICENSE TO FLY UPDATE#
To fly within the United States, you may need to update your ID or obtain a passport. However, this does not imply that your existing driver's license is valid for domestic flight travel. The Real ID Act is now fully implemented, and most states are issuing compatible IDs. No, however you will need a legitimate ID, and your driver's license may no longer suffice. So, if all else fails, call the airline directly to see if there are any seats available.ĭo you need a driver's license to fly in the USA? It is not uncommon for someone who has never been denied boarding access to a flight to miss it somehow. If this is the case, you could probably make it out of the country with your license.Įven though it is impossible to predict exactly what might happen when you use your license as identification, our best advice is to leave no stone unturned when searching for flights.
The only way around this is if there is a direct flight that does not go through any cities within the United States. However, if it is at all possible, we recommend that you avoid flying within the country because even though your license is current, the photograph on your license may not match what they call "the picture problem." When this happens, you cannot board the flight. In order to travel beyond the borders of the United States, you will need a passport. However, these cards are not accepted for entry into military bases, national parks, or other government facilities that require a passport.
Your improved driver's license or ID card fulfills federal REAL ID requirements and can be used to fly domestically.
Yes, you may fly domestically with your improved driver's license.