ASTA Launches REAL ID Member Toolkit

A year out from the READ ID deadline, ASTA has introduced a toolkit for members to help prevent disruption for their clients. It includes an ASTA-branded fact sheet, social media guide, sample disclaimer language, and other resources.

Starting on Oct. 1, 2020, travelers who elect to use a state-issued driver’s license at airport checkpoints must ensure that it is REAL ID-compliant, which means it is marked with a star located in the upper portion of the card.

According to a recent study conducted by the U.S. Travel Association, nearly three out of four Americans (72%) are unprepared for the upcoming REAL ID deadline; either they do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or are unsure if they do.

The study revealed a significant lack of awareness of the REAL ID program, with more than half of Americans (57%) saying they did not know about the upcoming deadline. Many Americans also lack the alternatives to REAL ID-compliant, state-issued driver’s licenses — such as a U.S. passport. In fact, 39% of Americans say they do not have any form of identification that will be accepted starting Oct. 1, 2020. This equates to an estimated 99 million Americans that may not currently hold the proper identification to board an airplane starting next year.

“As an industry, our goal should be that no travel advisor client is prevented from boarding a plane due to a lack of familiarity with the REAL ID requirements,” ASTA said in its newsletter.