The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has granted Pennsylvania an extension on the REAL ID Act through Aug. 1, 2019.
This extension means that Pennsylvania residents will not face access issues when boarding commercial aircraft or entering federal facilities through that date. Current PennDOT-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards will remain acceptable identification at least through this date.
The REAL ID Act of 2005 was introduced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to set standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards acceptable by federal agencies for official purposes, including boarding a commercial flight. The REAL ID licensing requirement will apply to air travel as well as federal buildings.
Beginning Oct. 1, 2020, all states will be required to use REAL ID driver’s license, U.S. passport, military ID, or an alternative TSA-approved ID.
PennDOT will make REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and ID cards available to Pennsylvania residents by March 2019. This will allow time for customers who want a REAL ID to get one before the final DHS effective date of Oct. 1, 2020.
Travelers can find helpful online information on REAL ID in Pennsylvania, including frequently asked questions, both at DHS and PennDOT.
Penn State’s Multimedia and Print Center, on the University Park campus, is a full-service passport location and offers a convenient option for obtaining a U.S. passport.
Penn State will keep travelers informed of all status updates on travel.psu.edu and via the Travel Listserv: travel.psu.edu/join-our-listserv.