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REAL ID

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On May 7, 2025, TSA will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at TSA security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck® members, must present REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable ID, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints.

Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (e.g., passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.

Not sure if you have REAL ID? For California licenses, look for the bear and star in the top right corner.

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List of Acceptable IDs

TSA accepts several forms of identity documents at the security checkpoint. Acceptable identification include:

REAL ID issued by Department of Motor Vehicles
State-issued Enhanced Driver's License
U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
HSPD-12 PIV card
Foreign government-issued passport
Canadian provincial driver's 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
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

What if I don't have a REAL ID?

Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative can expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint. Please plan in advance to arrive early if you do not have a REAL ID compliant identification.

Note: Those with TSA PreCheck will still require a REAL ID.

How will operations be impacted?

Airports across the country, including Santa Barbara Airport, anticipate a potential increase in wait times at security check points due to the REAL ID enforcement. SBA and TSA will increase staff presence to prepare for potential delays and provide additional lanes.

Those without a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will be instructed to enter a separate lane for additional screening and identity verification. Passengers are encouraged to arrive earlier than normal to account for delays.

Those with a REAL ID-compliant ID are still encouraged to arrive early due to the potential impact on security checkpoint operations.

How do I get a REAL ID?

Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID. At a minimum, you must provide documentation showing: 1) Full Legal Name; 2) Date of Birth; 3) Social Security Number; 4) Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence; and 5) Lawful Status.

States may impose additional requirements, so check with your state’s driver’s licensing agency website, before visiting them in person, for additional guidance and assistance.

Where can I get more information?

REAL ID

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