Early May deadline looms for REAL ID requirement

After over 20 years of delays, the REAL ID will be federally mandated starting May 7, requiring the card to fly domestically.

By Kaia Mann, editor-in-chief

Americans will soon need a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card to fly domestically or internationally, and to access secure federal facilities such as courthouses.

The REAL ID Act was originally introduced as a national security measure in 2005 following 9/11 to set consistent standards for sources of identification, according to the Department of Homeland Security. However, the program has faced repeated delays since its initial 2008 deadline.

Recent reports from the Department of Homeland Security suggest that the firm May 7 deadline for REAL ID enforcement is also part of a broader push to curb immigration, with the goal of preventing undocumented individuals from boarding flights. 

“The only place an illegal alien should be flying is home,” read a memo from the DHS. 

For those not eligible for a REAL ID, such as undocumented immigrants. they receive a Federal Limits Apply (FLA) ID. This ID is visually different from the REAL ID, marked with its namesake, “Federal Limits Apply,” thus becoming a visible marker or immigration status. 

“We refer to it as the Star of David,” said Dream Resource Coordinator, Javier Carbajal-Ramos. “During WWII, Jewish people were given the Star of David to indicate their identity. This [FLA ID] is the modern version for undocumented students.”

While the REAL ID will become the industry standard and recommended by the DMV website, it is still optional. Individuals that have a valid U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, military ID or enhanced driver’s license can still fly and may choose to wait until their regular license renewal to upgrade to a REAL ID.

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, more than 18 million Californians already have the new REAL ID card, identified by its signature gold or black star. However, over 45 percent of residents still need one and face swamped DMV offices and fully booked appointments. To handle the surge, dozens of facilities have started opening early to accommodate the influx of applicants.

“I don't even [have a Real ID],” said biology major Christian Huleis. “I guess I have heard about it, but I never really did anything about it. I think the only person that I know that's worried about it is my grandpa.”

In order to receive the new $45 card, one must have an official identification document such as a U.S passport or birth certificate, proof of social security number and two documents proving residency.