You'll need Real ID in less than a year: LAX will be the first airport to host an application center

Zach Wichter, USA TODAY
·3 min read
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Passengers traveling through Los Angeles International Airport will have a new way of making sure their driver's license is Real ID compliant.

United Airlines and the California Department of Motor Vehicles will host a popup Real ID application center in Terminal 8 on four days this month.

"Working together with United Airlines and LAX allows us to directly connect with the traveling public and provide them with a unique chance to get a REAL ID without a visit to a DMV office," DMV director Steve Gordon said in a statement.

Here's what travelers need to know to take advantage of it:

What is Real ID?

Real ID is a federal standard for identification documents, including state-issued driver's licenses. Beginning in May 2023, all travelers will need Real ID-compliant documents to board flights in the U.S.

What is the Real ID popup at LAX?

United Airlines, California's DMV and the operators of LAX will open a Real ID application popup at the airport's Terminal 8 on July 19, 21, 26 and 28. Application services will be available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on those days, and more days may be added if demand is high.

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Who can apply?

Any ticketed passengers or airport employees who are California residents can take advantage of the service.

Will I get my physical license at the airport?

No. The LAX partnership will allow you to complete your Real ID application while you wait for your flight or after you land, but you will not receive any documents at the airport.

Do I need to do anything to prepare?

Yes. In order to take advantage of the Real ID popup, you'll need to begin an application for your new driver's license online.

"Ticketed passengers and airport employees must start the online application and upload their documents prior to meeting with DMV representatives inside Terminal 8," the DMV said in a statement. "Customers will need to bring their original uploaded documents to be verified at the airport, and a copy of their confirmation page. They will also need to provide a fingerprint and electronic signature, and have their photograph taken to complete their application."

How do I know if my current license is a Real ID?

Most Real IDs feature a gold or black star – or in California's case, a golden bear with a star on its hindquarters. If you're not sure if your current ID qualifies, check your state's DMV website to see how it would be marked.

What happens if I don't get a Real ID in time?

Beginning in May 2023, Real IDs will be required to board flights in the U.S., so you won't be allowed past airport security if you don't have one. Other federally-issued documents – like a passport or Global Entry card – also qualify as Real ID, so you don't necessarily have to get a new drivers license to keep flying.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Real ID application popup coming to LAX this summer