State leaders urge Rhode Islanders to get a Real ID
by KENNEDY BUCK, NBC 10 NEWS
(WJAR) — There’s a deadline around the corner that travelers need to keep in mind.
“If flyers do not have a Real ID, a passport, or any other TSA approved document,” said Daniel Velez, who works with TSA Public Affairs with the New England Region. “As of May 7th, 2025, they will not be able to board a flight here at T.F. Green or any other airport around the country.”
A Real ID is an additional verification for passengers 18 years and older.
Receiving a Real ID star on you driver’s license begins at the DMV.
“They’ll need an identity document or a birth certificate, or a passport, two proofs of residence and also present your social security number,” said Budd Craddock, who is an administrator of the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles.
The requirement stems from the 9/11 attacks and is designed to make flying safer by verifying who you are, and some travelers are already ahead of the game.
“I think it makes a whole lot of sense and it’s not an inconvenience and it just works well and it facilitates the entire traveling process,” said Alice Wilson, who flew into Rhode Island for the week.
“We travel a lot so for me it was a big deal to get it done as soon as possible so I didn’t run into any trouble,” said Rob Rutten, who is also traveling to Rhode Island.
Other people flying into T. F. Green International Airport still have some questions.
“I don’t really know the issues behind it and why it seems a little odd but if that’s what they want to do, it’s not going to hurt me to do it,” Una Darlington, who flew into T.F. Green to travel to Cape Cod for the week, said.
Even though May seems far away, officials are encouraging people to receive one sooner rather than later.
“Another thing to stress is it takes about two weeks to receive your Real ID credentials,” continued Craddock.