MILLIONS of travelers can breeze through airport security checkpoints even if they forget their IDs thanks to a new travel update.
Forgetful flyers can have the answer to a travel nightmare right in their pockets after taking a few simple steps.
Travelers can breeze through airport security even if they left their IDs at home[/caption]
Passengers can use a digital ID on a newly released app[/caption]
On Monday, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry announced that all residents in his state can access a digital ID using a newly released app.
With LA Wallet, travelers can save their state-issued driver’s license to their phones and use it to buy alcohol and tobacco or breeze through the Transportation Security Administration checkpoints.
These new IDs have been approved for use for the next three years.
But before a passenger can use LA Wallet, they must make sure their license abides by the newly introduced TSA standards.
As of May, flyers must have a REAL ID, or else they’ll face extra screening by security employees and potentially miss flights.
People who want to use their digital ID but haven’t yet registered for a REAL ID should stop by their DMV before downloading the app.
Just make sure to bring your old license and another proof of identity like a passport or birth certificate to get the new card.
Travelers should also make sure that an airport has a digital ID reader before they use the LA Wallet.
According to the TSA, over 250 airports nationwide accept the digital cards.
Vacationers using their digital ID can expect to scan a QR code and take a picture at a TSA reader to confirm their identity.
TSA Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl said he hopes the “innovative technology” will “allow for a more flexible and accessible TSA experience,” he said in a press release.
“If you forget your wallet, no worries. You’re never going to forget your phone,” Landry said in a video announcement.
To guarantee seamless travel, flyers are encouraged to always have a physical ID on hand in case security needs verification for the digital ID.
Applying for a REAL ID
The process varies by state, but residents will need a few documents to apply for a REAL ID before the deadline.
No matter the state, the application process can be started online by scanning and uploading the necessary documents, basic information, and Social Security numbers. Once submitted and reviewed, an in-person visit to the DMV or your state’s department agency is necessary for an attendant to verify the documents.
From there, a thumbprint will be recorded in the system, and a photo will be issued for the ID before it’s mailed.
The documents needed are those that show:
- Full legal name (previous driver’s license, passport, etc)
- Date of birth (like a birth certificate, or an official copy of one)
- Social Security number (Social Security card)
- Two proofs of residence (like a utility bill or voter registration card)
- Lawful status
Source: Department of Homeland Security
HOW TO GET A REAL ID
Though the process varies from state to state, there are a few key steps that all US residents should plan on following to grab their REAL ID.
First, travelers should know that they can start the process online by scanning and uploading necessary documents, basic information, and Social Security numbers.
Once that information is submitted and reviewed, applicants must make an in-person visit to their DMV so an attendant can verify the documents.
The documents that prove residence must include the applicant’s full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of residence, and lawful status.
