Virginians have less than two weeks to obtain REAL ID to board plane: how to apply

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Boarding an airplane soon? The deadline for Virginians to secure their new form of identification to board a domestic flight is less than two weeks away: here's what you need to know.

Federal enforcement of new REAL ID requirements will begin on Wednesday, May 7. Starting on that date, Virginians will not be able to fly domestically with only their standard state-issued driver’s license or identification card. These requirements also impact anyone who attempts to enter a secure federal facility or military base.

“REAL ID is a coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards,” said Robin “Chuck” Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Richmond International Airport, Norfolk International Airport, Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport, Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, Lynchburg Regional Airport, Shenandoah Valley Airport and Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport. “This improvement is intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.” 

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According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), 81% of U.S travelers have been presenting an acceptable identification, including a state-issued REAL ID. With the deadline approaching in May, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects the number of passengers with REAL IDs to increase after that date.

Virginians can upgrade to a REAL ID if their license does not have the star, but identifications without the star won't be valid.

Can you fly without a REAL ID after the May deadline?

Virginia REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards will have a small star in the upper right corner, signifying that they meet federal enforcement regulations. But, if your driver's license is not REAL ID-compliant, passengers must provide an alternative form of identification approved by the DMV, including a passport.

You can start a REAL ID application online. You will then be asked to schedule an in-person appointment at a Virginia DMV location, with a $10 fee to secure your new identification.

You will also need to bring the following documentation to your appointment:

• One proof of your identity
• Two proofs of your Virginia residency
• One proof of your legal presence
• Proof of your Social Security number
• Proof of name change, if applicable

While REAL ID is optional in Virginia, a standard driver’s license or identification card will be subject to federal limits.