The Great Falls International Airport is reminding travelers that beginning May 7, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration will require all U.S. citizens 18 and older to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative to board domestic flights.

The requirement is mandated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

What travelers need to know, according to GFIA:

• REAL ID compliance: A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card features a star marking at the top of the card.​
• Accepted alternatives: If you do not have a REAL ID, acceptable alternatives include:
  • U.S. passport or passport card
  • DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
  • Permanent resident card
  • Border crossing card
  • Tribal ID from a federally recognized tribe
  • Other TSA-approved forms of identification​
• Children Under 18: Travelers under 18 are not required to present identification when traveling within the U.S.​

Plan ahead:

Montana residents are encouraged to visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles as soon as possible to apply for a REAL ID, as appointment availability may be limited. More information on obtaining a REAL ID, is available on the Montana Department of Justice website here.

Avoid travel disruptions:

Travelers without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative may experience delays, additional screening or even denied access through TSA security checkpoints. To ensure a smooth travel experience, GFIAA urges all passengers to verify their identification status well in advance of their travel date.​

NOTE:  If you have applied for you REAL ID and are waiting for it to arrive, bring the paper copy that you received and your old invalidated driver license. You may receive additional TSA screening, according to GFIA.

For more information on the REAL ID requirement, visit the TSA website here.

Arrive early:

TSA expects the screening process to be disrupted at all airports throughout the summer. Expect long lines at checkpoints. Plan to arrive two hours before your flight, particularly if you do not have REAL ID. Domestic airlines now require passengers to check in 45 minutes before flight time or your reservation will be cancelled and you will be unable to fly.