The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that it will continue to allow citizens with state identification cards that do not comply with the Federal REAL ID Act to continue to use their current, valid state identification to fly out of U.S. airports for some time after Jan. 1, 2016.
In recent months, air travelers from Minnesota have been concerned about their ability to fly after the first of the year as the state's regular driver's license does not comply with the act. Current Minnesota law prohibits the Minnesota Department of Public Safety from taking any actions to comply with the federal mandate.
In a statement dated Oct. 9, the DHS said, "Until announced otherwise, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will continue to accept valid driver's licenses and identification cards issued by all states. DHS plans to announce the schedule for any changes to air travel requirements by the end of the year, and will ensure that state governments and the traveling public are notified at least 120 days in advance of implementation."
Last Wednesday, Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton said he would seek an extension from federal authorities to give Minnesota time to comply with the law. (Read the Nov. 4, 2015 StarTribune article.)
If Minnesota remains out of compliance long-term, Minnesotans will need a compliant ID, such as a passport or an enhanced driver's license (already available from the state Department of Public Safety), to fly.
