TSA to Notify Travelers of Upcoming 2018 Real ID Airport Enforcement

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have started posting signs at airports notifying travelers that beginning January 2018 it will start enforcing REAL ID requirements at airport security checkpoints, meaning that travelers seeking to use their state-issued driver’s license or identification card for boarding commercial aircraft may only use such documents if they are issued by a REAL ID compliant state or a non-compliant state with an extension.

TSA’s notification follows Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson’s announcement earlier this year of the final phase of implementation of the REAL ID Act.  Effective January 22, 2018, TSA will only accept state-issued driver’s licenses or identification cards if they are issued by a REAL ID compliant state or a non-compliant state with an extension.  As always, travelers may use alternate forms of identification such as a passport, military ID, or permanent resident card. A complete list of identification documents accepted at TSA checkpoints is available on tsa.gov.

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes the minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies, like TSA, from accepting licenses and identification cards for certain official purposes, including boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, from states that do not meet these minimum standards and have not received an extension for compliance from DHS.

DHS continues to work with states to encourage compliance and may grant extensions or determine compliance for additional states as warranted.  TSA will update signage if and when states that are currently listed receive extensions.  Learn more about REAL ID, check the status of your state’s complianceor read the frequently asked questions.

The Real ID Act of 2005 states that state-issued IDs from these nine states do not meet the minimum security standards of the federal government. They are Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina & Washington.

Read More

Were you aware that a Passport Card will only allow passengers to travel back into the US at land border crossings and sea ports of entry? Therefore, travelers cannot use the Passport Card for international air travel. This can be an expensive lesson if you are not prepared ahead of time.

The Passport Book, on the other hand, allows passengers to travel international via land, air, or sea. The purpose of the Passport Card is for frequent land border crossings.

"The passport card was designed for the specific needs of northern and southern U.S. border communities with residents that cross the border frequently by land. The passport book is the only document approved for international air travel." - US Department of State

The Passport Card is cheaper which is why some people decide to get it instead of the Book, but passengers will be denied bording at the airport if all that is presented for an international flight is the Card. Also, travel insurance will not cover trip expenses for this reason so it's possible that passengers could be out thousands of dollars for an international trip if they are not equipped with the proper documentation.

Be prepared for your next trip by visiting travel.state.gov. 

Read More

The major point of discussion regarding travel right now is regarding all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.  There are reports of some tragic incidents and disturbing situations that visitors in Mexico have experienced. 

Travelers' concerns are very important and should not be diminished. The way people feel about and perceive these situations can differ from person to person. Here are some important things to remember:

• Just to put it into perspective:  There are approximately 35 million tourists annually visiting Mexico and the percentage of these incidents are very small.
• Try to stay positive and enthused about vacations overseas.
• If travelers are no longer interested in traveling to Mexico because of these stories, there are always other options in the Caribbean that may be a great alternative.
• In addition to swimsuits and party clothes, travelers should pack their common sense. If something seems amiss in your destination, it very well may be. Do something about it. Travel in pairs (at least). Do not become the most trusting person on the planet because you left your cares behind.

The concerns are real and should be considered when planning travel to Mexico. Don't let the stories scare you away from considering this destination, but be sure to do your research and select an area that will make you feel comfortable.

Read More