Global Entry is a program administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows for expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. One common question that arises for travelers looking to enroll in the Global Entry program is whether or not a Global Entry card can serve as a Real ID.
The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards in order to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities. The act was passed in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to improve the security of state-issued identification cards. The deadline for states to comply with the Real ID Act was extended to October 1, 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
One key distinction between a Global Entry card and a Real ID is their intended use. A Global Entry card is specifically designed for expedited customs and immigration processing when re-entering the United States, while a Real ID is meant for domestic travel and access to federal facilities. As such, while a Global Entry card does contain biometric information and is considered a trusted traveler program, it may not necessarily fulfill the requirements of a Real ID for domestic flights.
However, it is worth noting that a Global Entry card does serve as a valid form of identification at some airports. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a Global Entry card can be used as a form of identification for domestic flights as long as the traveler is on a domestic itinerary and departing from a U.S. airport. This means that for travelers who have both a Global Entry card and a valid U.S. passport, they should have no issues using their Global Entry card as a form of identification for domestic flights.
In addition to domestic flights, a Global Entry card can also be used as a valid form of identification for entering certain federal facilities. This is due to the fact that the Global Entry program is managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which falls under the Department of Homeland Security. Therefore, for travelers who need to access federal facilities and have a Global Entry card, they should be able to use it as a form of identification.
While a Global Entry card can be used as a form of identification for domestic flights and access to federal facilities, it is important to note that it is not a Real ID-compliant document. In order to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, travelers must visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles and provide the necessary documentation to prove their identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency.
In conclusion, while a Global Entry card can serve as a valid form of identification for some purposes, such as domestic flights and access to federal facilities, it is not a Real ID-compliant document. Travelers who are in need of a Real ID for domestic travel and access to federal facilities should ensure that they obtain the necessary documentation from their local Department of Motor Vehicles. As the deadline for states to comply with the Real ID Act approaches, it is important for travelers to be aware of the differences between a Global Entry card and a Real ID in order to ensure smooth and hassle-free travel experiences.
