SECURITY agents have tried to answer a question they say they’re asked a lot by travelers.
And, their response is sure to impact the amount of time Americans allow themselves when heading to the airport.
When exploring a different country, there is a small risk that something unexpected might happen.
Transportation Security Administration officials claimed they are asked by travelers what happens if their ID cards are stolen.
They explained how the process might work at airports.
“Officers may ask you to complete an ID verification process,” they said.
“Because this process takes longer, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours early.”
TSA have released a list of valid IDs travelers can present at checkpoints.
They can present their US passport, or a state-issued enhanced driver’s license.
A passport or border crossing card is also a form of valid identification.
Or, they can present their Real ID when traveling domestically.
The policy mandating Americans to have their Real ID came into force in May.
State transportation departments are still reporting an increased demand for Real IDs – two months after the policy was rolled out.
State officials are working with local Department of Motor Vehicles offices looking at ways to respond the growing demand, as per the Idaho Transportation Department.
Mobile units in New Jersey are being created to help facilitate appointments for Real IDs.
But Americans who have not yet obtained their Real ID are being urged to book an appointment to avoid missing out.
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
Ahead of the May 7 enforcement date, travelers were urged to be ready for the Real ID scheme.
In May 2005, the Real ID Act was passed as part of efforts to combat terrorism and identity fraud.
If for any reason an ID card isn’t recognized by the scanning machines, then officers might ask a traveler to complete an ID verification process.
Travelers have been warned that they risk not being able to pass through security if they refuse to take part in the process.
Meanwhile, The U.S. Sun reported how millions of travelers will notice a change in the security procedure when at airports.
Travelers no longer have to remove their shoes.
The shoes-off rule was in place for 20 years before it was ended.
TSA bosses have since released a video showing the new policy in place.
Kristi Noem, Donald Trump’s Homeland Security Secretary, said the change will help usher in the so-called golden age of travel.
