BILLINGS, MT, May 12, 2016 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The REAL ID Act was initiated by the 9/11 Commission in an effort to keep Americans safe from terrorists. It requires states to comply with stricter standards when issuing driver's licenses in an effort to keep these ID's out of the hands of terrorists.
The Act, which is rolling out over a two year period, will require that anyone flying domestically be required to have either a passport or a Real ID-compliant driver's license beginning on January 22, 2018. People who don't realize they have time and live in non-compliant states are rushing out to acquire passports. So far, non-complying states include Illinois, Missouri, Washington, New Mexico, and Minnesota but the commission is encouraging states to begin issuing driver's licenses with the stricter standards as soon as possible.
For now, travelers will be able to fly domestically by just showing their state driver's license or some other approved form of ID. The TSA will begin educating the public as well as airport security over the upcoming months through training and signage at airport checkpoints detailing the new standards and how to comply. The Commission has also suggested the federal government work with local and state agencies to implement the changes that will be required by 2018. The hopes of the 9/11 Commission are to improve national security as well as cut down on illegal immigration and fraud.
Though the new law goes into effect in January of 2018, there will be exceptions for those who have been given an extension. After 2020 the Real ID Act is expected to be fully compliant.
Coconut Club Vacations is a value members-only travel club providing members with member benefits which range from access to discounted travel to packages and tours as well as consumer benefits.
# # #