The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) again delayed the deadline for enforcement of REAL ID requirements, the latest pandemic-related extension for the program aimed at establishing a consistent security standard for issuing driver’s licenses and other identification.
DHS announced Tuesday it is extending the REAL ID full enforcement date by 19 months, from October 1, 2021, to May 3, 2023.
Once enforcement is in effect, travelers age 18 and older flying commercially in the US will need to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other state photo identity card, which should be marked by a star on the top of the card. Passports and other forms of approved identification will still be accepted. The department attributed the latest delay to limited operating capacity at state driver’s licensing agencies, which has delayed renewals of expiring licenses.
