In a little more than two years, anyone without a Real ID who attempts to board a domestic flight or access a federal facility will be turned away, state officials are warning.
And while the implementation of Real ID has been in the works since legislation was passed in 2005, a hard deadline has been set; Oct. 1, 2020.
Anyone without a Real ID-compliant license permit or ID card after the deadline will be denied access to domestic flights and certain federal facilities, said Sarah Bonick, executive director of marketing and communications with the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
The ID looks and acts like a driver’s license — and costs the same too. The most noticeable physical difference is a gold star in the upper right-hand corner of the card.
And while upgrading to a Real ID is not required for those who already have an Indiana license or ID, Bonick said it’s highly encouraged.
“The BMV wants everyone to be aware of Real ID, what documents you need in order to upgrade to a Real ID and what the consequences may be if you do not have a Real ID,” Bonick said.
“If you plan to fly domestically any time after October 2020 and do not have a passport, it is important to know that you will be turned away at the airport if your license is not a Real ID.”
For those getting an Indiana license or ID for the first time — or those upgrading — repeat trips can be avoided by gathering all required documentation before heading to the local BMV.