TAMPA — In four weeks, your driver’s license may not be an acceptable form of identification for boarding a domestic flight. That is unless your license is REAL ID compliant

Beginning May 7, U.S. travelers who wish to board a domestic flight will be required to show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. Without it, they will need a U.S. passport or other acceptable form of identification.

“Most Floridians likely have a REAL ID by now, since the state began issuing them over a decade ago,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “However, if you recently moved from another state or haven’t renewed your license in a long time, check your ID. If it doesn’t have the correct markings, set an appointment with the DMV soon. The closer we get to the REAL ID deadline; the longer DMV lines are likely to be.”

What is REAL ID?

In 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act in effort to fight terrorism and reduce identity fraud by strengthening the integrity and security of State-issued driver licenses and ID cards. REAL ID is a driver’s license or other form of state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets the minimum-security standards set forth by the federal government

Is my License REAL ID Compliant?

REAL ID-compliant cards will have of one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won’t be accepted as proof of identity to board a commercial aircraft.

How to Apply for a REAL ID

To become REAL ID compliant for the first time, you must go in-person to a state-approved office. Visit www.flhsmv.gov/locations to find a location near you. A Class E driver’s license can be renewed up to 18 months prior to the card’s expiration date.

Review additional FAQs from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID webpage.