Real ID 2021 update for Arizonans: What you need to do to be able to fly after Oct. 1

Melissa Yeager, Arizona Republic
·4 min read

Real ID 2022 update: We're glad you found this article. For the most up-to-date information on the 2022 Real ID deadline extension, read our latest story: https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/airlines/2022/07/18/real-id-deadline-2023/10053983002/

Add this to your list of resolutions for 2021: Make an appointment to upgrade your drivers license or get another travel-compliant Real ID if you want to fly.

The implementation of the Real ID Act, passed by Congress after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, to standardize the criteria used to issue drivers licenses and other state IDs, was pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now the clock is ticking: Starting Oct. 1, you'll need a Real ID or you will not be allowed  to board a domestic flight in the United States.

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That can be a Real ID-compliant drivers license or other form of identification such as a military ID, passport or federally recognized tribal photo ID.

What is the difference between a Real ID and a regular license?

To find out if your ID will allow you to travel, look in the upper right hand corner. If you see a gold star, your ID will work. If not, you'll need to get a new ID or use your passport or military ID.
To find out if your ID will allow you to travel, look in the upper right hand corner. If you see a gold star, your ID will work. If not, you'll need to get a new ID or use your passport or military ID.

How do you know if your drivers license is a Real ID? Look in the top right corner of your license. If you see a gold star, your license is Real ID compliant. If you don't have one, you'll need to upgrade your license or carry another Real ID compliant form of identification when you travel.

What do I need to get a Real ID in Arizona?

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you'll need to make an appointment with the Motor Vehicles Division. You can make an appointment at https://azmvdnow.gov.

You will need to present four documents to obtain a Real ID. These include:

1. Proof of identity

Bring ONE of the following:

  • Certified birth certificate.

  • U.S. passport.

  • Passport card.

2. Proof of Social Security number

Bring ONE of the following:

  • Social Security card.

  • W-2 form.

3. Proof of Arizona residency

Bring TWO of these showing your current address:

  • Utility bill.

  • Credit card statement.

  • Bank statement.

  • Insurance policy.

Do kids need a Real ID?

TSA does not require IDs for children younger than 18 if they are traveling with an adult within the United States. However, the agency recommends checking with your airline for its specific requirements.

How much does a Real ID cost?

An Arizona travel ID costs $25.

Arizonans will need an upgraded drivers license or other travel-compliant Real ID to board a domestic flight starting Oct. 1, 2021.
Arizonans will need an upgraded drivers license or other travel-compliant Real ID to board a domestic flight starting Oct. 1, 2021.

Do you need a Real ID if you have a passport?

No. A U.S. passport or passport card will work. According to the TSA website, you can use any of the following:

  • U.S. passport.

  • U.S. passport card.

  • DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, Nexus, Sentri, FAST).

  • U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents.

  • Permanent resident card.

  • Border crossing card.

  • State-issued enhanced drivers license.

  • Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID.

  • HSPD-12 PIV card.

  • Foreign government-issued passport.

  • Canadian provincial drivers license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card.

  • Transportation worker identification credential.

  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services employment authorization card (I-766).

  • U.S. Merchant Mariner credential.

My license is about to expire but I don't want to go to the MVD right now. What do I do?

Don't worry. On Dec. 30, Gov. Doug Ducey issued an executive order "deferring renewals of standard driver licenses with an expiration date between March 1, 2020, and Feb. 28, 2021, by one year from their original expiration date."

You can check your new expiration date at https://azmvdnow.gov.

However, the executive order only applies to the expiration date of your license, not its status as a Real ID. If your license is not travel-compliant, you will not be allowed through security. If you decide to wait to renew, check whether you have one of the other Real ID-compliant options in case you have an emergency and need to fly after Oct. 1.

Will TSA accept my expired license?

TSA is allowing some grace for those who haven't been able to renew their licenses during the pandemic. But it depends on the expiration date.

TSA started allowing people to use a license that expired after March 1, 2020, at airport security checkpoints for one year after the expiration date. TSA plans to keep this policy in place until 60 days after the national emergency is lifted.

Again, that only applies to the expiration date. You'll still be required to present a Real ID after Oct. 1, 2021.

You can connect with Arizona Republic Consumer Travel Reporter Melissa Yeager through email at melissa.yeager@azcentral.com. You can also follow her on Twitter and Instagram. 

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona travel ID deadline: How to get a Real ID drivers license