Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005, and it was supposed to go into effect in 2008. However, the deadline has been pushed multiple times over the last several years, to give states more time to comply. If you’re confused about what the Real ID Act even entails, you’re not alone. You can read more detailed information about the new IDs. In short, the Real ID Act creates stricter security standards for driver’s licenses and other state-issued ID cards. Previously, each state had its own rules and requirements for issuing IDs and driver’s licenses. Now, there will be federal standards that all states have to follow. These standards are a minimum, so some states may have additional regulations, as well.
Not everyone needs a new compliant ID. Children under 18 will not need a Real ID. Adults will need one to fly and to access secure locations, such as military bases. However, TSA will still accept U.S. passports for domestic air travel, if you do not have an upgraded ID. So, if you have a valid passport and don’t mind bringing it to travel around the U.S., then you don’t have to upgrade your driver’s license if you don’t want to.