Will Your ID Work at the Airport? REAL ID Requirements in 2026
If you are flying out of Connecticut — from Bradley International (BDL), JFK, LaGuardia (LGA), or Newark (EWR) — one of the most critical pre-trip checks is confirming your ID is TSA-accepted. The REAL ID Act has changed what documents are valid at airport security checkpoints, and being unprepared can mean missing your flight.
What Is the REAL ID Act?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission’s security recommendations. As of May 7, 2025, every air traveler aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant document to pass through TSA checkpoints and board any domestic U.S. flight. Non-compliant IDs are no longer accepted.
Which IDs Does TSA Accept in 2026?
The following documents are currently accepted at all TSA airport security checkpoints:
- REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or state ID (look for the gold star)
- U.S. passport or U.S. passport card
- DHS Trusted Traveler cards — Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST
- U.S. military ID (active duty and dependents)
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Enhanced Driver’s License (issued in select states)
- Federally recognized Tribal Nation-issued photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
Is My Connecticut License REAL ID Compliant?
Connecticut began issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses in 2018. Check the upper right corner of your Connecticut driver’s license or ID card for a gold star symbol. If the star is present, you are compliant. If there is no star, your license will not be accepted at TSA — you will need to bring your U.S. passport or another accepted document.
What If I Do Not Have a REAL ID-Compliant Document?
Do not panic — you still have options. A valid U.S. passport works at every TSA checkpoint nationwide. You can also visit your local Connecticut DMV to upgrade your driver’s license to a REAL ID-compliant version. Bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of Connecticut residency. The upgrade process is straightforward and typically completed in one visit.
Tips for Stress-Free Airport Travel from Connecticut
- Check your ID at least two weeks before your trip — do not leave it until the last minute.
- Arrive at BDL, JFK, LGA, or EWR at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international.
- Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry for faster security screening.
- Book your airport transportation in advance so you are never rushing to the terminal.
Arrive at the Airport on Time with AveryLimo Global
Worrying about your ID is enough stress — do not add transportation anxiety on top of it. AveryLimo Global provides reliable, punctual airport limo service CT from every Connecticut city to BDL, JFK, LGA, EWR, HPN, and BOS. We monitor your flight in real-time and adjust pickup times automatically for delays — at no extra charge.
Call us at (800) 396-9651 or book your CT airport limo online today. Available 24/7, 365 days a year.