Don’t Forget Your Documents: 6 Forms of ID for Travel in 2021

2021 will see new requirements in documentation needed to travel.  There will be six forms of identification you must have to travel.  They are:

Real ID

The United States Federal Government passed the Real ID Act in 2005 on the recommendation of the 9/11 commission.  “The Act established minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards.”  The fancy way of saying there were changes made to the security features of your id card.  There should be an identifying symbol of your state and a star in the upper right-hand corner.  If this mark is not there you may need to get a new one before you hop on a plane. The deadline for all states to have Real ID is October 21, 2021.

Covid Documentation

As everyone is anxious to forget the year 2020, here comes a new way to remind us; Covid Documentation.  The world is beginning to reopen as the Covid vaccine is rolled out and some nations will require proof of vaccination in order to enter their country, or a negative Covid test.  Be safe, stay healthy, and keep your documents with you. 

Passport

Nothing has really changed in passports over the last several years.  You do need one for international travel.  It takes time to receive your passport so don’t delay unless you are ok paying a hefty $60 “expedite fee”.

TSA Pre-Check

This one is not truly required, unless you like waiting in line at the airport, taking off your shoes, belt, etc… to be allowed on an airplane.  “TSA Pre-Check allows a number of low-risk travelers (and their children 12 years and younger) to go through a more efficient and expedited screening process.”  In other words, you may bypass slow-moving security lines, you no longer have to remove your shoes, belts, jackets, laptops, and the 3-1-1 liquid compliant bag.

Clear ID

CLEAR is a system utilizing your biometrics (your eyes, face, or fingerprints) to identify you.  The system converts a scan of your biometrics and converts it into a unique code id.   The code goes into a system and you can use your face to literally open doors for you.  You scan at kiosks at the airport and then you may be on your way to adventure.

Global Entry

Global entry is much the same as the TSA Pre-Check and the CLEAR system except on an international level. “Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.”  Basically, if you are enrolled you walk up to a short customs line, scan your id or passport and your fingerprint, then get welcomed back to the United States.

Additionally, a visa may be required to enter certain countries.  The best way to determine if a visa is necessary and to obtain updates on Covid related documents, and all other ID requirements, it is best to ask your Travel Agent.  They will have the most up to date information and can answer questions regarding what you must do to obtain the documents you need for travel.