Airport officials want to make sure you have updated ID before deadline

ATLANTA — While the deadline is a year away, airport officials want travelers to make sure they have the updated identification they need to fly.

Starting Oct. 1, 2020, the Transportation Security Administration will enforce new requirements for IDs to fly and get through airport security. It's part of the Real ID Act passed in 2005.

TSA has placed signs around all airports to remind travelers about the IDs, including here in Atlanta at Hartsfield Jackson-International Airport.

Those who use a driver's license as an ID will need one that fulfills the "Real ID" requirement, marked by a star in the top right corner. Another option is to use a passport as ID at the TSA checkpoint.

Georgia has been in compliance with the REAL ID Act since 2012. More than 96 percent of Georgians already have their IDs.

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"There are very few states that have 96.2 percent compliance with the real ID guidelines," said Georgia Department of Driver Services Spencer Moore.

For people who attempt to travel after Oct. 1 next year, without that star and Real ID, you won't be allowed to travel. The national effort sets a baseline and raise security features on identifications and needs to be done in person.

"We have to see you. We have to physically get your image. We have to vet the documents you bring in to ensure that those documents are real," Moore said.

You can still use military Department of Defense IDs and valid passports to fly.

Cox Media Group