When’s the last time you’ve traveled? Think about it … you’re making your way to the airport and more than likely a friend or family member (or maybe even an Uber/Lyft) is dropping you off in front of departing flights at Orlando International Airport (MCO). You grab your suitcase and check it at your airline. As you head to security, you remove your ID to present to the TSA agent. Take another look at your ID. Do you see a gold star in the upper right-hand corner of your license? If so, you’re all set. However, if you don’t, you’re going to need a new ID. If you’re unsure about whether or not your license is REAL ID-compliant, contact the Florida driver’s license agency for verification.

Travelers are a little under one year away from being required to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license OR another acceptable form of identification to fly within the United States. A U.S. passport is another form of accepted ID. This REAL ID requirement begins on Oct. 1, 2020, for anyone traveling via plane who is 18 years or older. 

“It is critical for the traveling public to know not only that this change is coming, but that the deadline is quickly approaching,” said Phil Brown, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA).

This change could negatively affect as many as three out of four Americans, according to the press release.

You may be asking yourself, “Why is this change taking place?”

The enhanced security effort is part of the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, which complies with the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the federal government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses,” identified the press release.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) will be advertising the upcoming deadline for REAL ID compliance through digital and print signage throughout the airport.

For more information about the REAL ID Act, visit tsa.gov/real-id.