Travelers will soon need a new form of identification before hopping on an airplane.
Starting Wednesday, May 7, a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will be required for all flights and entry into federal buildings.
During a news conference April 16, at the El Paso International Airport, Transportation Security Administration spokesperson Patricia Mancha encouraged El Pasoans to plan to get their new ID immediately.
“The clear message is start today,” she said. “If you don’t have a REAL ID, make an appointment with your state (Department of Motor Vehicles) whether you live in Texas, New Mexico or any other state (because) every state will require a REAL ID.”
The REAL ID program was approved by Congress following a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission that the federal government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses,” according to the Department of Homeland Security website.
The program established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
In Texas, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card features a star in the upper right-hand corner. In New Mexico, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card features a gold star in the same location.
Beyond a state-issued REAL ID compliant identification card, the following forms of identification will also be accepted, according to the TSA website.
A REAL ID can be procured at a state DMV office.
While some states may require additional documentation, applicants must present documentation showing their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and two proofs of address of principal residence and lawful status.
Mancha stated that TSA will work to verify the identity of travelers who do not have a REAL ID after the May 7 deadline, but noted that it may cause delays and there is no guarantee a person will be able to make their flight.
“Every day, we have people at the checkpoint who show up without an ID,” she said. “We work with each traveler to try to verify their identity and that’s what REAL ID is about — you’ve already presented information that verifies that you are the person you say you are and that’s what TSA does every day.”
“Our challenge is going to be on May 7 and beyond, that if we have 100 travelers who don’t have a REAL ID, then we’re going to be checking and verifying identities for 100 people,” Mancha continued. “So, if you’re traveler 99 on that list, you may not be cleared in time to make your flight, so it’s really a numbers game. It just depends how many people we see at the checkpoint.”
Adam Powell covers government and politics for the El Paso Times and can be reached via email at apowell@elpasotimes.com.

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