A major transformation in domestic air travel within the United States has officially taken flight as the REAL ID Act moves from policy to practice. What began as a post-9/11 recommendation from the national commission has now become a federally enforced requirement at airport checkpoints nationwide.
Starting this week, all adult passengers boarding domestic flights must present a form of identification that meets REAL ID standards. Though the legislation behind REAL ID was passed nearly 20 years ago, its actual enforcement has faced numerous delays and extensions.
What do these new requirements entail? Which forms of ID are still valid? And how can citizens apply to obtain a REAL ID? Click through this gallery to find out.