What happens if you don't have a REAL ID at the airport?

NEWS
What happens if you don't have a REAL ID at the airport?

REAL ID enforcement started yesterday, May 7, 2025, requiring travelers to have a REAL ID-compliant ID to board domestic flights in the U.S. If you don’t have one yet, there are still ways to fly, but it may require extra time at the airport for identity verification. Here's what you need to know if you're not yet REAL ID ready.

1. What is the REAL ID requirement?
The REAL ID requirement means travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant ID to board domestic flights in the U.S. starting May 7, 2025.

2. How can I identify a REAL ID?
A REAL ID has a gold or black star in the upper right corner of the driver’s license or ID card.

3. Can I still fly without a REAL ID?
Yes, you can still fly with alternative IDs like a U.S. passport, passport card, or a Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, etc.).

4. What should I do if I don’t have a REAL ID yet?
You can try to book a last-minute appointment at the DMV for a REAL ID, but if that’s not possible, consider using a passport or another valid ID for now.

5. What happens if I show up at the airport without a REAL ID?
TSA will verify your identity through additional screening, which will take longer. You should arrive earlier than usual and bring extra documents like a birth certificate or Social Security card.

6. Can I use a temporary driver’s license?
No, temporary driver’s licenses (the paper slips from the DMV) are not accepted by TSA.

7. How early should I arrive at the airport if I don’t have a REAL ID?
Arrive 1-2 hours earlier than usual to allow time for additional screening.

8. How can I get help with the REAL ID process?
You can contact AskTSA for assistance by texting “travel” to 275-872 or reaching out on social media platforms like X (Twitter) or Facebook Messenger.

More news to know:

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📜Mexico will introduce a new cruise passenger fee starting at $5 on July 1, 2025, replacing the initially proposed $42. The fee will gradually increase to $10 in 2026, $15 in 2027, and $21 by 2028. It will be collected once per itinerary and applies to all cruise guests.

✈️Arajet, the Dominican Republic-based budget airline, will launch a new route between Santo Domingo (SDQ) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) on November 30, 2025, operating four times weekly. Fares start at $170 one-way. The airline continues expanding its network with plans to connect Latin and North America via its Santo Domingo hub, including a new long-haul route to Buenos Aires launching in December. Arajet uses Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft and offers tiered, low-cost fare options

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FLIGHT DEAL
Frontier Launches Companion Travel Perk for Elite Flyers: Bring a Friend for Free

✈️Frontier Airlines has launched a new Companion Travel perk for its most loyal customers. Travelers with Platinum or Diamond status in the Frontier Miles program can now bring a friend or family member along for free on any flight—just pay taxes and fees. Unlike other companion programs, there’s no need to choose a single companion, giving travelers more flexibility to bring different guests on each trip.

To qualify, members must earn 50,000 status points in a calendar year through Frontier purchases or by using the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard®, which offers 10 points per $1 on Frontier purchases and 1 point per $1 elsewhere. Once eligible, travelers can book flights through Frontier’s website or mobile app and apply the benefit. The companion must have a Frontier Miles account, but can fly free if there’s room on board.

OFFER ALERT 

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TRAVEL TIP
Stay awake until bedtime the day you arrive in a new time zone

After a long overnight flight, it can be tempting to sleep immediately upon arrival. However, doing so may make jet lag worse and delay adjustment to the local time zone. Sleep experts recommend staying awake until evening to help the body align with the new schedule.

For morning arrivals, a short nap may be helpful, but if landing occurs after midday, it's more effective to remain active until bedtime. This approach supports a smoother transition by promoting natural sleep later in the evening.

Staying awake on the first day can improve sleep quality and reduce the effects of jet lag. Travelers should also consider setting an alarm to avoid oversleeping the next morning, which can disrupt the adjustment process.

WONDER
Is TSA PreCheck Worth the Money? Travelers Weigh In

A survey by Upgraded Points reveals mixed opinions on whether TSA PreCheck is worth the investment. While it’s marketed as a way to expedite airport security, members only save an average of seven minutes compared to non-members. TSA PreCheck users spend about 36 minutes going through security, which is longer than the expected 10-minute wait.

How Much Time Does TSA PreCheck Actually Save?

On average, TSA PreCheck members spend 36 minutes going through security, while non-members report spending around 43 minutes. While this seven-minute difference may not seem like much, the true benefit lies in other conveniences, such as not needing to remove shoes, laptops, or liquids, which contributes to a more relaxed and efficient experience.

However, 93% of TSA PreCheck members report less stress during the security process, with a notable reduction in anxiety compared to non-members. The program also allows benefits such as not removing shoes or laptops during screening. For frequent travelers, the convenience and reduced stress are often seen as worth the $78 enrollment fee for five years, especially if it's a benefit of their travel credit cards.

Ultimately, for those who travel often, TSA PreCheck offers significant advantages, while occasional travelers may find it a useful luxury for smoother airport experiences.