Does a Military ID Count as a Real ID?
Direct Answer
In short, yes, a military ID can be considered a Real ID-compliant form of identification, but with certain limitations.
What is a Real ID?
The REAL ID Act is a federal law passed in 2005 that aims to enhance the security and integrity of identification documents. The act sets minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards to prevent identity theft and document fraud. As of October 1, 2021, passengers 18 and older flying commercially or accessing federal buildings and nuclear power plants will need a Real ID-compliant ID to travel or enter these areas.
What Constitutes a Real ID-Compliant ID?
A Real ID-compliant ID must meet the following criteria:
• Document verification: The ID must be issued by a state or jurisdiction and contain certain identifying information, such as the person’s name, date of birth, gender, and residency.
• Security features: The ID must include advanced security features, such as a unique identifier, hologram, or magnetic stripe, to prevent tampering or alteration.
• Compliance with FBI standards: The ID must meet minimum security standards set by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for printing, paper quality, and font styles.
Types of Military IDs
There are several types of military IDs, each with varying levels of compliance with the REAL ID Act:
• Uniformed Services ID Card: Issued by the Department of Defense, this ID card is accepted for federal purposes, but not for flying commercially.
• DoD ID Card: A more extensive ID card that includes additional information, such as name, date of birth, and Social Security number. This card is compliant with REAL ID standards and can be used for commercial air travel and accessing federal buildings.
Military ID Compliance for Real ID Purposes
Table 1: Military ID Compliance for Real ID Purposes
| Type of Military ID | Real ID Compliant? | Accepted for Commercial Air Travel? |
|---|---|---|
| Uniformed Services ID Card | No | No |
| DoD ID Card | Yes | Yes |
As shown in Table 1, a DoD ID Card is the only military ID that meets the REAL ID Act’s security standards and is compliant for use in commercial air travel and accessing federal buildings. Uniformed Services ID Cards do not meet these standards and are not accepted for flying commercially.
Challenges and Limitations
While military IDs can be considered Real ID-compliant, there are still some challenges and limitations to be aware of:
• State-by-State Variations: REAL ID compliance varies by state, and not all military IDs are recognized as compliant across all states.
• Age Restrictions: The DoD ID Card, while compliant, is typically only issued to military personnel, veterans, and their families. Civilian personnel, contractors, or family members may not be eligible.
• Limited Access: Some federal facilities may require additional forms of identification, such as a driver’s license, in addition to a military ID.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while a military ID can be considered a Real ID-compliant form of identification, there are limitations and challenges to be aware of. The DoD ID Card is the only military ID that meets REAL ID standards and is compliant for commercial air travel and accessing federal buildings. When traveling or accessing restricted areas, it’s essential to verify your military ID’s compliance and availability in advance.
